The SOS Children Villages and Orange Foundation under Orange Liberia GSM Company over the weekend launched the sports for development program.
Giving the overview of the program at the SOS Children’s Village in Monrovia, the National Director of SOS Children’s Village, Prosper Ndione, said it is with great pride and deep gratitude that he along with other guests were inaugurating the “Sport for Development” Program, a remarkable initiative that brings together our shared commitments to the future of children and youth in Liberia.
At the program launching on Friday August 23, 2024, Mr. Ndione added,
“Today marks the beginning of a journey that will not only uplift our young people but also strengthen the bonds within our communities, fostering growth, empowerment, and unity through the universal language of sports.”
Mr. Ndione revealed that “Sport for Development” program, inspired by the upcoming Olympic Games in Paris, is more than just a series of games or competitions.
According to him, it is a platform for youth, particularly young girls, to discover their potential, build confidence, and develop skills that will serve them for a lifetime.
“We have chosen two cornerstone sports for this initiative; female football and basketball, both of which resonate with the passion and energy of our youth,” he maintained.
These sports are not just about physical activity; they are about teamwork, leadership, discipline, and the pursuit of excellence, the National Director explained.
“Our mission is clear: to use sports as a vehicle for social development, to empower our youth, and to create a lasting impact that extends beyond the playing fields. We have until December 2024 to implement this program, and we are committed to ensuring that every moment counts in making a difference in the lives of our young participants,” Mr. Ndione maintained.
Mr. Ndione explained that this ambitious project would not have been possible without the unwavering support and dedication of the Orange Foundation.
He extended his deepest thanks to the Orange Foundation for their generosity, their vision, and their belief; saying, “In the potential of Liberia’s youth. Your commitment to this partnership is a testament to the power of collaboration in driving meaningful change. We are honored to be a part of this global initiative and to contribute to the legacy of the Olympic Games in our own unique way.”
“I also want to express my heartfelt gratitude to the entire SOS Children’s Villages Liberia team. This project is the result of your hard work, creativity, and dedication. You have poured your hearts into making this vision a reality, and today, we stand on the brink of something truly special because of your efforts,” he said.
As we embark on this journey, let us remember that the true spirit of sports lies in the lessons it teaches us—about perseverance, respect, and the pursuit of our dreams. Let us use this program as a catalyst for change, ensuring that our children in Liberia have the opportunities they deserve to grow, to learn, and to thrive Mr. Ndione concluded.
Also speaking at the launch of the program, the head of Orange Foundation, Uomah Wilthers, said the event held over the weekend is part of Orange All connected challenge where more than 24,000 dedicated employees took part to making this success.
According to her, Orange has proudly donated funds to their partner SOS Children’s Villages to enable children in the 22 participating villages to discover and practice sport of their choice.
Madam Wilthers said, her presence at the SOS children’s village compound over the weekend was to celebrate the great initiative and witness the positive impact their contribution is making.
She added that, Orange Liberia is committed in driving position change through their foundation and CRS program by connecting with their communities, empowering individuals and fostering innovation they aim to create a brighter future for all.
“Our inclusivity and innovation are evident in our projects initiatives and programs” madam Wilthers added.
“Orange Liberia stands tall not just a telecommunications company but as a proud partner in Liberia’s journey toward a brighter future by the positive impact we have on the community we serves,” she concluded.
Acknowledging Orange Liberia’s contribution, the Senior Political Adviser to the president, Macdella Copper, conveyed the government’s appreciation for the company’s involvement in supporting Liberian youth.
She shared insights on personal development and encouraged young people to prioritize their futures.
Cooper highlighted the significance of youth engagement in sports as a means to foster positivity, focus, and mental well-being among the younger demographic, emphasizing the benefits of sports participation for personal growth and community development.
The collaborative efforts between Orange Liberia, SOS Children Villages, and the Liberian government reflect a unified commitment to nurturing and empowering the nation’s youth through sports, paving the way for a brighter future for young athletes in Liberia.
“Do not allow poverty to determine your future “Madam Cooper encouraged the students at SOS Children’s Village.
The program was also graced by the Assistant Minister for TVET at the Ministry of Youth and Sport Collins Tamba including Madam Garmai Kollie of the Ministry of Gender, Children and Social protection, who pledged their Ministries commitment in working closely with the SOS children’s village to see the project come fruition.
The program was also attended by Madam Miriam Murray of Plan International Liberia and M. Hamzat Kiazolu a team Assistant at the German Embassy in Liberia.
