Over the past six months, the School Sport Foundation (SSF) has embarked on a transformative journey under Roman’s leadership, with a renewed focus on long-term, sustainable impact. From building key partnerships through gala dinners in China and Kenya to gearing up for a much larger role in the upcoming Gymnasiade in Bahrain, SSF has positioned itself at the forefront of global sports education initiatives.
Forging new partnerships in China and Kenya
SSF’s participation in gala dinners in China and Kenya marked a significant turning point. These events provided more than just fundraising opportunities—they enabled SSF to form lasting relationships with local stakeholders, ensuring that our work extends far beyond these initial efforts.
In Kenya, the immediate outcome was a boost in resources for local schools, with new sports equipment enhancing the children’s physical education. The gala dinner in China allowed SSF to create meaningful, long-term partnerships with local communities, ensuring ongoing support for sports initiatives in the region.
Looking ahead to a major role in the Gymnasiade in Bahrain
At the end of October, SSF will be playing a central role in the 2024 ISF Gymnasiade in Bahrain, one of the largest school sports events in the world. This monumental event will bring together athletes from across the globe for a celebration of youth, sport, and cultural exchange. However, this year’s Gymnasiade will go beyond sports competitions. SSF is proud to be contributing to a weekend of activities that promote holistic well-being, including art, yoga, and Pilates sessions.
Additionally, SSF will host special yoga and Pilates events designed to promote both physical and mental well-being. These sessions will offer participants a chance to relax, recharge, and reflect on the importance of balance between mind and body, aligning perfectly with SSF’s mission of holistic youth development.
Shifting from short-term to sustainable impact
Over the past six months, SSF has transitioned from focusing on short-term projects to establishing sustainable, long-term initiatives. Our shift towards building strong partnerships in regions like China and Kenya ensures that the impact we create will continue to grow, even after the initial projects are completed. This approach allows us to offer more than just sports equipment—we’re providing the foundation for thriving sports programs that can evolve and flourish independently.
Interview with Roman – insights on SSF’s Progress
We asked Roman to share his thoughts on SSF’s evolution and the excitement surrounding the upcoming events in Bahrain:
Q: Roman, what motivated the shift in SSF’s approach over the last six months?
Roman: “It became clear to me that while we were making an impact, we needed to think more strategically about how to sustain that impact over time. Our focus shifted from delivering resources to fostering long-term partnerships, which is why the gala dinners in China and Kenya were so important. They helped us connect with local leaders and build relationships that will last well beyond the events themselves.”
Q: What has been the most rewarding part of this transformation for you?
Roman: “The most rewarding part has been seeing how quickly and positively communities respond to our efforts. After the gala dinners, visiting the children in Kenya and seeing their excitement when they received new sports equipment was a highlight. It’s moments like these that remind me of the importance of what we’re doing.”
Q: How do you see SSF’s role evolving in the next phase of its journey?
Roman: “We’re committed to deepening our engagement in the regions where we’ve already made an impact, such as China and Kenya. But we’re also exploring new opportunities. Our goal is to ensure that every child, regardless of their location, has access to quality sports education and equipment. This means continuing to build partnerships and strengthen our presence in both existing and new regions.”
Q: How is SSF contributing to the Gymnasiade in Bahrain, and what excites you most about the event?
Roman: “The Gymnasiade in Bahrain will be a landmark event, not just for the athletes but for everyone involved. SSF is excited to be contributing to a weekend of sports, but also to sessions that promote art, mindfulness, and overall well-being. The art sessions led by Diane de Navacelle de Coubertin, as well as the yoga and Pilates events, are unique additions that reflect our belief in the importance of holistic development. It’s about much more than just sports—it’s about creating an environment where young people can thrive physically, mentally, and creatively.”
SSF is proud of the progress made over the past six months and looks forward to continuing its mission to empower youth through sports and education. With the leadership of Roman and Diane de Navacelle de Coubertin, SSF remains committed to creating lasting opportunities that extend beyond sports, enriching the lives of young people worldwide.
