Train the Trainers Workshop, 2026

FAME Foundation, in partnership with Manchester City and Midea, commenced the PLAY it DREAM it project with a two-day Train the Trainers Workshop held in Lagos on 9–10 February 2026. The workshop was designed to strengthen the capacity of community coaches to deliver structured and well-managed sport-based sessions for young people.

Day One focused on effective coaching communication, youth psychology, session planning, leadership, and participant development. The sessions began with understanding how young people learn and respond, including approaches to confidence building and supporting participants experiencing fear, mistakes, or low self-esteem. Emphasis was placed on encouraging participation from all young people and fostering an environment that supports engagement and development.

The communication segment addressed giving clear and simple instructions, using constructive feedback rather than criticism, managing different personalities, and understanding the role of body language, tone, and presence in coaching. Participants reflected on how communication directly influences learning outcomes and group dynamics.

The second session on Day One concentrated on session planning and leadership. Coaches were guided through planning sessions step-by-step, setting clear learning objectives, adapting activities for different ability levels, and monitoring participant progress. Discussions also covered motivating disengaged participants, managing discipline positively, resolving conflicts, building team spirit, and demonstrating role model behavior. These components provided practical guidance for delivering organized and goal-oriented sessions.

Day Two addressed inclusive coaching, safeguarding, nutrition, health, and emotional intelligence. Participants explored approaches to coaching diverse groups, including working effectively with girls and boys, supporting shy or vulnerable participants, and adapting activities to meet different ability levels. Respect and equality within sessions were also discussed.

The safeguarding session covered duty of care, maintaining appropriate boundaries between coaches and participants, identifying and responding to concerns, gender sensitivity, and building trust. Practical examples were used to reinforce ethical responsibilities in coaching environments.

The final session focused on nutrition, health, and emotional intelligence. Coaches examined the importance of nutrition education, hydration strategies, energy management for sport, and establishing healthy routines. Emotional intelligence topics included recognizing and managing personal emotions, demonstrating empathy in coaching, responding calmly to challenges, and strengthening coach-participant relationships.

The workshop concluded with a certificate presentation to participants, marking the completion of the two-day training. This workshop represents the initial phase of the PLAY it DREAM it project’s capacity-building activities and prepares coaches to deliver structured sport-based programs within their communities.