Last month, Coaches from City in the Community, Manchester City’s official charity, embarked on an exciting journey to Barranquilla, Colombia, to empower young community coaches with Football & Water Education training.

This initiative, part of the Xylem Water Heroes Academy network, is driven by a passionate group of Young Leaders dedicated to using the power of football for promoting responsible water conservation, waste management, and safe hygiene practices (WASH). 

Over the five-day period, Manchester City coaches engaged with 40 inspiring Young Leaders. Together, they shared their expertise and knowledge in community football coaching, leadership, and the importance of water education. 

The week ended with a community football festival, where Young Leaders put their learnings into practice, entertaining local kids with fun football games and teaching them about important sanitation issues. 

Reflecting on the training, Young Leader, Santiago said: “The Young Leader training has been excellent and has contributed to my personal and professional development. I have learnt that through football, I can teach young people how to care for their community and lead a healthy lifestyle.” 

Water Heroes Academy, supported by Xylem and Manchester City, is a global network of youth-led projects aimed at tackling water challenges in local communities using the power of football.  

Find out more about Xylem’s Football & Water Education training HERE.