Harnessing the power of sport
Rugby project helps with community development in Africa
Have you ever been part of a team and, at the start of the season, thought: “How is this ever going to work?” You show up to tournament day at the soccer field and as soon as the whistle blows, the kids are to the ball like white on rice. Or maybe it was TIMBITS hockey at the Brian Kilrea Arena, all the little players frantically racing down the ice to get the puck.
In both scenarios, it seems like utter chaos until something amazing happens: a goal is scored. Suddenly, they’re a team. Regardless of age, gender, background, or life at home, sport has the power to inspire and unite people.
I have always wanted to take the power of sport to the next level, having been involved in it for the majority of my life, so when I came across Bhubesi Pride, I jumped in fullthrottle. Bhubesi Pride is a newly formed charity that works across the African continent to support rugby and community development in schools and community centres, with aims to unite children, empower local teaching staff, and inspire sustainable development by developing young leaders and building relevant relationships. Over the past two years, we have established relationships in 30 different schools and centres across 10 different countries, reaching out to 3,000 children and staff. We have also established relationships with NGOs, national rugby unions, government departments, international schools, local businesses and partner organizations such as G4S. From February to July 2014, we are looking to broaden our reach even further, embarking on a five-month expedition through Ethiopia, Kenya, Botswana, Rwanda, Uganda, Tanzania, Malawi, Namibia, Zambia, and South Africa.
The greatest return from our investment comes from the children and community leaders.
“Bhubesi is really making a significant difference in the life of children, teachers, the communities around us,” says Elanie Kruger, HR director G4S Africa.
I often get asked why I would take on such a project. In a time when new grads are faced with recordsetting debts, difficult job prospects amid a recovering economy, is it advisable to put time and money toward a charity that doesn’t directly contribute to your chances of scoring that entry-level job? The better question is: “Why not?”
I have the opportunity to improve the lives of thousands of individuals, teaching them about the things I love. I get to see a new part of the world and experience new cultures. Growing up in Ottawa, I was fortunate enough to have an incredible network of coaches and athletic teams that largely shaped who I am today. It is now my turn to take what I have learned and teach it to others.
The majority of the planning for this coming year’s expedition has been completed by now, but the greatest area for support remains in funding. Despite our best efforts to minimize costs, there are still some that are incurred.
You can find out more about Bhubesi Pride Charity and the work we do at rugbyinafrica.org