Etihad Airways and Manchester City returned to India this year, bringing together inspiring Young Leaders from across the country for an empowering weekend in Mumbai.

For a third year in a row, the initiative continued its mission to support community focused football programmes and create positive impact through sport.

Young Leaders travelled from seven cities including Kolkata, Delhi, Ahmedabad, Hyderabad, Kochi, Bangalore and Mumbai, to participate in the Summit, which is delivered in partnership with Etihad Airways and supported locally by the Magic Bus India Foundation.

The Summit is designed to equip these Young Leaders with the skills, confidence and knowledge needed to run inclusive football sessions in their own communities.

Under the guidance of experienced coaches from City in the Community, Young Leaders took part in training sessions focused on leadership, community, and how football can be used as a tool to support young people. 

One of the Young Leaders reflected on their experience being a Young Leader, saying “Being a Young Leader means walking alongside your community and helping others.”

More than just a training event, the Summit served as a unique platform for cultural exchange and collaboration. Young Leaders shared experiences from their cities, built lasting connections with football lovers from other regions, and celebrated the positive impact of their work.

By combining community coaching with leadership development and football activities, the Etihad Young Leaders Summit in Mumbai once again highlighted the power of sport to create safe and inclusive spaces across India.