08/09/2024
LiveSafe PlaySafe: Empowering Children Through Sports!
Its Thursday morning, the weather in Bamenda 1 is friendly, no rain! Young people can be seen making their way to the playground of College of Commerce! It’s another session of LiveSafe PlaySafe; The initiative, of Youth Outreach Programme, is making a profound impact in the lives of children through the power of sports, offering a safe and an engaging environment for the youth to play, learn, and grow. This morning 150 young people have shown up for the session. 90 boys and 63 girls converge from various corners of the village to have fun!
In a community where daily challenges can often overshadow opportunities, LiveSafe PlaySafe shines as a beacon of hope. This program focuses on the well-being of children, recognizing that they are the foundation of any thriving society. By providing a space where they can safely engage in physical activities, the program is helping to counter the economic and social challenges that often hinder their development.
Participants like 18-year-old Shekina Glory highlight the program’s impact in her life. “My name is Shekina Glory, I am 18 years old. I am happy to be here, where we live safely and play safely thanks to Youth Outreach Programme. I love being a part of this program because we get to interact with other friends, meet new people and play safely. LiveSafe PlaySafe!” For Shekina, the program is more than just a chance to play; it’s an opportunity to connect with others and build lasting relationships in a safe environment.
Fifteen-year-old Mumeh James shares a similar sentiment. “I am 15 years old and I love to play football. I love the program LiveSafe PlaySafe because I get to safely play football with my friends and I will love to keep coming here,” he says. For Mumeh, the joy of playing football with friends in a safe setting is a key reason he values the program.
For 12-year-old Nkainbi Rita Abonwi, LiveSafe PlaySafe has been a life-changing experience as it has opened doors she never imagined, giving her the chance to pursue new dreams. “I am grateful for this program because it is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for me. I have never played football before but thanks to this program, at least I can do something now. I thank God and I pray that I go higher in the sporting field,” she says.
With over 90 children participating in various sports and physical activities twice a week, LiveSafe PlaySafe is more than just a playground it’s a platform for personal growth. The program emphasizes essential values like teamwork, honesty, and respect, preparing these children not just as athletes, but as future leaders and contributors to society.
LiveSafe PlaySafe is not just about sports; it’s about giving children the hope and tools they need to shape their own destinies. As the program continues to touch more lives, it reminds us that through unity, resilience, and determination, the future of children can indeed be bright.
LiveSafe PlaySafe is a youth development activity that focuses on growing young football players as both an athlete and a person.
