Karanba Event with Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre at Copacabana

The Prime Minister got to meet our participants, who shared their personal stories of how Karanba has changed their lives. Støre emphasized the importance of sport as a tool for social change:

“Sport opens doors and creates opportunities for young people, not only in Brazil, but all over the world. When we invest in children and young people, we invest in the future,” said the Prime Minister.

Karanba participant Marcos Victor Santana Lima (16) talked about his experience:

“Karanba has been a dream come true. I've had the opportunity to take courses in IT, English and even as a junior firefighter. The project has opened doors for me and broadened my horizons,” he said.

Another participant, Alessa da Silva Oliveira (17), shared her story:

“Karanba has taught me a lot, both on and off the pitch. The project has given me strong bonds with people who have become like family to me,” she said.

Tommy explained how the project combines football and education to give children from São Gonçalo better prospects for the future;

“Karanba has also changed my life. I've been given the opportunity to give hope to children growing up in difficult circumstances. My main goal is to prepare them for life, and give them the conditions to have a better life,” Tommy explained.

The Prime Minister concluded by highlighting the great diversity in Karanba:

“I am particularly pleased that almost half of the participants are girls. Promoting equal opportunities in sport is key to building a more inclusive society,” he concluded.

We are incredibly proud of the positive impact Karanba is having on the lives of our participants, and we thank all our friends, partners and supporters who make this possible. Together we create hope, realize dreams and change lives!