500+ participants from 37 countries, including young leaders from ISA MENA, gathered in France, united by sports and leadership, inspiring youth to break barriers and build inclusive communities.
In July 2024, a group of young leaders from ISA Egypt embarked on a transformative journey by joining over 500 participants from 37 countries at Festival 24, a global celebration of the Olympic spirit held in the vibrant cities of Lyon and Paris. For these young participants, this event was not just an opportunity to showcase their athletic skills; it was a chance to grow as individuals and become agents of change within their communities.
Festival 24 brought together participants united by a shared belief in the power of sports to drive social change. As the ISA MENA delegation arrived, they were filled with excitement and anticipation, eager to engage in activities that would broaden their horizons and deepen their understanding of leadership and community development. For many of the young leaders, this was their first international trip, and the experience was both exhilarating and daunting. “I was nervous but excited. I knew this would change my life,” one young leader expressed. As they settled into the festival, the atmosphere buzzed with energy, friendship, and shared purpose.
The festival kicked off with a series of leadership workshops designed to equip the young leaders with essential skills. Over two days, participants engaged in seven workshops that covered life skills in sports, promoting gender equality, and creating safe, welcoming communities. “The training taught us that our role as leaders goes beyond sports; it’s about inspiring others and fostering change,” shared another participant.
One of the standout moments was during the sports rotation stations, where the young leaders had the opportunity to engage in various sports, including football, rugby, volleyball, and boxing. Each station was carefully crafted to emphasize key values such as friendship, respect, and determination. As they moved from one activity to the next, participants were not only learning new skills but also building connections with peers from different backgrounds. “Being part of this global event showed me that, despite our differences, we are all working towards the same goal: building inclusive, equal, and thriving communities,” a young leader reflected.
In addition to the sporting events, Festival 24 provided a platform for cultural exchange. The young leaders experienced the rich history and diverse traditions of their fellow participants through cultural performances and collaborative activities. They enjoyed sightseeing in Lyon, exploring its historic sites, and immersing themselves in the city’s vibrant culture. “Seeing how different cultures celebrate through sports was inspiring. It ignited my passion to promote inclusivity back home,” shared a young leader.
As the festival progressed, the ISA Egypt team participated in the grand Opening Ceremony of the Paris 2024 Olympic Games near the Seine River. Carrying their flag during the parade was a moment of pride and unity. “It felt surreal to be on such a global stage and part of something so significant. I understood that we were representing our country and the potential of our youth,” one leader recalled.
Despite facing a few challenges, such as the intensity of the program, for many participants, this was their first time traveling abroad, and they were not accustomed to the fast-paced schedule of workshops, sports activities, and cultural exchanges. The packed itinerary demanded both mental and physical stamina, pushing participants outside their comfort zones. One young leader shared, “The schedule was so full, and it was a challenge to keep up with everything. But, looking back, it taught me how to manage my energy and stay focused on the bigger picture.” The festival’s emphasis on leadership development and sports diplomacy exposed them to new concepts, requiring rapid adaptation and learning.
As the festival drew to a close, the impact of the experience began to crystallize. The young leaders returned home with a renewed sense of purpose, confidence, and a commitment to implementing what they had learned. “Festival 24 showed us that sports can be a powerful tool for change. We are more inspired to take action in our communities,” one participant declared.
The lessons learned at Festival 24 are now being channeled into local initiatives in Egypt, where the young leaders are working to promote social inclusion, gender equality, and community development through sports. “We want to create programs that bring youth together, foster friendships, and break down barriers,” they affirmed.
Reflecting on their journey, the ISA MENA delegation recognized that Festival 24 was more than just a sports event—it was a movement. A movement that harnessed the power of youth to drive positive change, foster connections, and inspire future generations. As they look ahead, the legacy of Festival 24 will continue to resonate in their actions, igniting a spark of hope and empowerment within their communities.
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