Five decades of armed conflict and organised crime in Colombia have led to an increasing number of families living in impoverished conditions. In these conditions, children are especially vulnerable to being drawn into crime, drugs, and violence. Andy’s activities give children an opportunity to see life beyond conflicts and crime.

QUICK FACTS

Andy was nominated for the Young Coach Education Programme by the foundation Colombianitos. Right from the start of the education, she showed a very high level of commitment.

ANDY

Project: Colombia, July 2015 – March 2016

Parent Organisation: Colombianitos

Born: 1993

Nationality: Colombia

Project Colombia | Facts
8
Peer Young Coaches
130
Benefiting Children

MY STORY

“I was born on the Caribbean coast in the state of Cordoba. Growing up I played football in the streets almost every day. After moving to another town in Colombia, football was the best means to start interacting with the other kids. Football is my life. It has given me everything. It motived me to stay in school, get a good education, and gain a scholarship to attend university.

I got involved in social development through football by volunteering for the foundation Colombianitos. After finishing my studies, I was offered a position at the foundation, and started working as a coach. Now, I work for a government run organisation, which is also working with kids from difficult backgrounds and conflict-affected communities. The children touch my heart, and I want to give my all to make their world a better place. It is important to teach them about values in life. So, during training we always combine football with educational workshops. That makes learning easier and more interesting for the kids. It is all about providing value to the free time they have after school.

The Young Coach Education Programme in Barbosa was another great opportunity and an amazing experience. Following the programme, in recognition of my commitment, Scort invited me to attend the Streetfootballworld Festival in France. I had never left my country before. I met people from Palestine, Brazil, Iraq, Arabia, and Australia. Neither religion, nor colour, nor disability mattered – sport always has a way of connecting people. Sport breaks barriers.

And, none of this would have been possible, if it hadn’t been for football and the passion I feel for it. To me, the path I have followed seems like a dream come true.”

GALLERY ANDY

Young Coaches

Our Young Coaches are community leaders and role models in less privileged societies. They commit themselves to support the children of their communities by conveying important social topics (conflict resolution, inclusion, HIV prevention, etc.) through football. Each of the Young Coaches represents a unique personal story.