PLAY it DREAM it September Boot-Camp

FAME Foundation, in collaboration with Laureus Sport for Good, held its September Boot-camp under the PLAY it DREAM it initiative on September 15, 2024, at the Area 3 Football Pitch in Garki, Abuja.

The event brought together 70 children, comprising 50 girls and 20 boys from the New Kuchingoro IDP camp, to leverage the transformative power of sports in fostering well-being and personal development.

The primary objective of the boot-camp was to promote well-being, quality education, and gender equality through sports.

Mr. Elisha Moses, a PLAY it DREAM it coach, led the overall sports session, demonstrating the various ways in which sports can enhance physical health, mental health, and overall well-being. The children participated in a variety of activities designed to teach them the importance of teamwork, discipline, and perseverance, all of which are integral to personal growth.

During the football session, Coach Inyene Idiong worked exclusively with the girls, while Mr. Moses focused on the boys. This structure was intentional, as it allowed for targeted coaching while also emphasizing the values of gender equality in sports. Both coaches highlighted how participation in sports can create equal opportunities and empower children, regardless of gender. Their session fostered an inclusive environment where each participant was encouraged to engage fully, ensuring that everyone benefitted from the positive impacts of sports and education.

In addition to the sports activities, the boot camp featured an engaging mentorship session led by guest speaker Ms. Gloria Jonathan.

She began by explaining the importance of personal hygiene in preventing illness and promoting well-being. Using fun demonstrations, she illustrated how germs spread and why keeping clean is vital.

Ms. Jonathan emphasized hygiene practices, such as washing hands thoroughly after using the toilet and before eating. She guided the children through the proper hand washing technique, appropriate eating manners and importance of sleep to the health.

The children participated eagerly, asking questions and sharing their own experiences.

Ms. Jonathan also highlighted the importance of brushing teeth twice a day and maintaining cleanliness in their living spaces.

She carried out a health check session by checking their teeth and their nails.

This engaging session left a lasting impact, equipping them with knowledge they could share with their families and peers.

The event successfully demonstrated the role of sports and education in empowering young individuals, equipping them with essential life skills that extend beyond the playing field. Overall, the boot-camp was a significant step towards fostering a healthier, more informed, and inclusive community among the children of the New Kuchingoro IDP camp.