Egyptian Champs in Moscow

Three years ago, 14 year-old Nawal*, was one of the thousands of deprived children living in the streets. Today, she a member of the girl's football team that represented Egypt at the Street Child World Cup in Russia. 

Nawal's journey was not an easy one. As is common in Egyptian rural communities, it is not socially acceptable for girls to play sports or wear sports clothes in public. Yet, Nawal was determined to follow her dream. And this year, one of her biggest dreams came true as she joined 200 boys and girls from across the world who have gathered in Russia to play, compete, and to raise their voices against the problems they face from being left in the street.

The aim of the Street Child World Cup: The Future Depends on You is to inspire governments and communities to better protect, respect and support street children worldwide. Organised by Street Children United, with support from Save the Children, the event uses the power of football to raise awareness and to tackle the stigma faced by street-connected children. In addition to the football tournaments, the event included a General Assembly to provide street children with a platform to voice their concerns, and self-expression through a vibrant art exhibit. 

The Egyptian team is sponsored by NAFAS Sport; an initiative that works to improve the lives of children living in the street in Egypt. NAFAS Sport creates opportunities for street children to safely take part in football activities through regular training events in marginalised neighbourhoods of Cairo.

We are proud to support Nawal and the rest of the girls and boys who were able to make it to the world tournament in Russia this year.

*Names are changed to protect identity