Dakar, Senegal – (African Boulevard News) – Football has proven to be a powerful tool in helping migrant youths find their place in Spain’s Canary Islands. Run by CD Tenerife, a football club that plays in Spain’s second tier, and the University of La Laguna, this unique program has offered weekly training sessions for dozens of unaccompanied minors from different African countries.
About 10,000 migrants have reached the Canary Islands this year alone, seeking refuge and a better life. Among them are many unaccompanied minors who have left their homes and families behind in search of safety and opportunity. These young migrants face numerous challenges including language barriers, cultural differences, and the struggle to integrate into a new society.
Through the football program, these young migrants have found a sense of belonging and purpose. The weekly training sessions serve as a safe space for them to bond with their peers, overcome cultural differences, and develop vital skills both on and off the field.
According to Ricardo León, the coordinator of the program, “Football provides a common language that transcends barriers. It brings these youths together, helping them build friendships and form a support network with others who are going through similar experiences.”
The program not only focuses on football skills but also provides a holistic approach to the participants’ development. It offers educational support, language classes, and access to psychological counseling to help the youths navigate the challenges they face.
“We believe that by providing these young migrants with a positive environment and the necessary tools for their growth, we can help them integrate into society and improve their prospects for the future,” says León.
The impact of this football program goes beyond the pitch. It has given these young migrants a renewed sense of hope, self-confidence, and a chance to rebuild their lives. Many participants have gone on to join local football clubs or even pursue professional careers in football.
The success of this program has not gone unnoticed. Other football clubs in the Canary Islands have shown interest in replicating this initiative, recognizing its potential to empower and uplift migrant youths.
As the number of migrants arriving in the Canary Islands continues to rise, it is crucial to provide them with a support system that helps them integrate into society and realize their full potential. The football program run by CD Tenerife and the University of La Laguna is a shining example of the positive impact that sports can have on the lives of young migrants.
Through the power of football, these migrant youths are finding their place in Spain’s Canary Islands, building connections, and nourishing their dreams of a better future.
Sources:
– Africanews: [URL1]
– Google Search: [URL2]
