Champions Factory was awarded the prestigious #BeActiveAwards in the "Sport for Peace" category for our outstanding initiative "Together for Ukraine". The ceremony was held on April 16, 2024, in Liège, Belgium, during the EU Sports Forum 2024, with over 150 participants from across Europe. Iliana Ivanova, the European Commissioner for Innovation, Research, Culture, Education, and Youth, honored Shirin Amin, our chairperson, highlighting our significant efforts in using sports to integrate refugees.
A Refuge in Sports
For refugees escaping the horrors of war, finding safety is merely the first challenge. Settling into a new country introduces language barriers, cultural differences, and sometimes, local prejudice. These challenges add to the trauma and loss already endured. We, at Champions Factory, actively address these issues through our "Together4Ukraine" project, which utilizes the unifying power of sports.
Impactful Outreach
Our program impacts are diverse and deeply transformative:
● Community Integration: We provide support to children and youth affected by crises, such as war, helping them assimilate into their host communities.
● Mental Well-being: Sports act as a vital tool in our efforts to enhance the mental health of these young individuals, aiding them in overcoming trauma.
● Building Bonds: Our activities help these children adjust and build strong connections within their new communities.
● Inspiring Leadership: By sharing our experiences and best practices, we encourage other sports clubs and organizations to initiate similar support programs, thereby extending our impact.
Through our initiatives, Champions Factory not only offers a physical space for health and exercise but also creates an inclusive environment where young refugees can prosper emotionally and socially. This award is a testament to our dedication to fostering peace and integration through sports. Join us in celebrating this achievement and support our ongoing efforts to forge a more inclusive and peaceful world through the universal language of sports.