FOOTBALL4iMPACT: Bringing cultures together through football
Following a 6-day trip to Lisbon as their CAS Project, eight of our Year 12 students returned with friendships they never would have imagined possible. The project seeks to unite students from different cultures and backgrounds through their common love of football. This was done as eight girls from London and our Year 12 students were welcomed by eight boys from Lisbon for a trip full of adventure, learning, and of course, football.
The main aim of Football4Impact is to “provide young people a chance to connect and learn about pertinent topics and how these can be strengthened and alleviated through involvement in sport” and it’s fair to say this was achieved in Lisbon. This common goal splits into two different objectives: one being creating lifelong bonds through football, and the other developing leadership qualities and new skills as a group. The first objective was achieved through multiple football trainings and matches as everyone merged and played together despite the different styles of football. The group also shared multiple life-fulfilling experiences, notably a tour of the Benfica stadium and even a ‘Liga Portugal’ match at the Sporting CP arena. Furthermore, the students also developed new skills and knowledge through various workshops focused on financial literacy, mental health and even graffiti. They also got the incredible opportunity to attend an inspirational presentation from an ex-footballer turned leading financial trader and author.
The groups have now begun preparation for their next reunion, which will be held in London next October. This exciting new step will require various fundraising activities, constant communication, and contribution from every member of the project. As of now, some of the events planned in order to achieve that goal are a UEFA raffle for Champions League Final tickets and other football memorabilia, as well as a student/teacher/parent football tournament.
To keep up with the project’s next steps, make sure to follow our Instagram page: @football4impact
