As part of the Club’s continued commitment to Sao Paulo, Brazil and Barranquilla in Colombia, City in the Community coaches recently delivered a training programme which aims to inspire the next generation of community football leaders.
Over a seven day period, youngsters in each city took part in classroom and on-the-pitch workshops on leadership, life building skills, practical planning and using football as a means to positively impact social issues.
The week-long programmes culminated in the leaders putting their newly developed skills into action by planning and delivering a football festival for local children on the final day.
“Manchester City’s desire to empower better lives through football to communities around the world is stronger than ever,” explained City Football Group Foundation Director, Tom Pitchon.
“We are proud to be sharing more than 100 years of community expertise to deliver our Young Leader training in Sao Paulo and Barranquilla which will help upskill and develop two groups of very dedicated young people.”
City’s global community work sees young leaders utilise football projects as a sustainable force for social good.
In Brazil, the Club has been working with Gol De Letra for two years, which delivers the Goals for Equality project.
Using the country’s passion for football it promotes gender equality and empowers female leaders to run mixed football leagues and educate communities on gender issues.
In addition, City has also been working with Barranquilla’s Urban Football project for three years.
Providing safe areas for young people to play football, this programme also introduces them to mentors and role models who teach them how to avoid the daily threat of drugs and gangs.
Reflecting on outstanding work of each initiative, Pitchon added: “These projects are making a genuine difference in the local community and we want to equip these young leaders with the leadership, confidence and football coaching skills they need to have a genuine impact in their community.”
