The workshop marks the start of the IPC's partnership with the Foundation of Global Sports Development (GSD), who are funding it with a contribution of $50,000 (£31,000).

IPC President Sir Philip Craven (pictured) said: "This workshop is a wonderful initiative for those youngsters to get involved in Paralympic Sport.

"These youngsters may well become future Paralympic athletes.

"The athletes are at the heart of the Paralympic Movement, and the Paralympic Games could not exist without them.

"By staging this camp, the IPC wants to give these youngsters the necessary tools to develop their sporting abilities and maybe one day take part in Paralympic Games."

The Youth Workshop aims to empower 60 youngsters with a disability to get into sport and develop their abilities.

A significant part of the training for participants is dedicated to sport, but will also include elements to improve interpersonal skills and a focus on individual living conditions.

Five Paralympic sports including athletics, goalball, table tennis, wheelchair basketball and wheelchair tennis will be practised.

The Paralympic values, including courage, determination, inspiration and equality will also be experienced, practised and incorporated into the lives of the youngsters.

In addition to youngsters between the ages of 14-18 taking part, all countries involved will send their youth co-ordinators and coaches to receive specific training in order to enable them to spread the message of empowerment to an even wider audience following the conclusion of the workshop.

IPC Governing Board member Jose Luis Campo and Americas Paralympic Committee President Octavio London will attend the workshop to interact with the youngsters and tell them what the Paralympic Movement is about.

The Foundation for Global Sports Development's work with international sports organisations helps young athletes from disadvantaged backgrounds, and developing countries, train and prepare for international competitions that would otherwise be out of reach.

In addition, the government of El Salvador supports the workshop by providing accommodation, transport, volunteers and sport venues.

Contact the writer of this story at [email protected]