Empowering Rohingya Youth Through Sport
All great things start with just one idea, and for Jasmin, that was the case in 2022. A former participant in the Street Child Cricket World Cup and captain of Team England at Lords in 2019, Jasmin launched Rohingya Sporting Aids (RSA) to provide sports opportunities for Rohingya youth in the refugee camps of Bangladesh. With an initial grant of £2,500 from the Qatar Fund for Development (QFFD), she set out to transform the lives of displaced young people through structured sports and education.
A Vision for Hope and Opportunity
Growing up in the UK after being born in a refugee camp, Jasmin understood firsthand the power of sports to inspire, unite, and empower. She was named in the BBC 100 Influential Women list, a testament to her dedication and leadership. With Rohingya Sporting Aids, she aimed to address the growing crisis among refugee youth, who often face limited opportunities and risks such as drug abuse and gang involvement.
RSA started with 35 young participants in two weekly sessions, combining football activities with educational programs. The funding was used to purchase essential sports equipment, training materials, nutritional meals, football kits, and boots, as well as to rent space for educational sessions. The program quickly gained momentum, holding annual tournaments within the camp to foster community pride and motivation.
The Transformative Power of Sport
For many young refugees, life in the camps is filled with uncertainty and trauma. RSA provides a much-needed sense of structure, emotional support, and personal growth by using the power of sports. Through various programs, sports serve as a powerful tool to improve mental health, helping young people reduce stress and anxiety while building resilience. Team activities promote social and emotional development by building self-esteem, encouraging friendships, and creating a sense of belonging across diverse backgrounds. Additionally, participation in sports has not only improved physical well-being but also equipped young people from the refugee camp with essential life skills such as leadership, communication, and teamwork. These are key attributes that prepare them for future opportunities beyond the camp. Through these efforts, RSA continues to transform lives, offering hope and empowerment to those facing adversity.
Beyond Sport: Education and Awareness
Beyond sports, RSA extends its support to the community through life skills sessions that empower young people with knowledge and critical thinking skills. These educational sessions cover vital topics such as drug abuse awareness, mental health and well-being, crime prevention, Rohingya history and identity, and democracy and political awareness. By addressing these key issues, RSA equips young people with the tools they need to navigate challenges, understand their rights, and make informed decisions. Through these initiatives, RSA fosters a sense of empowerment, helping youth build a positive future and become active, responsible members of their communities.
Jasmin’s vision for Rohingya Sporting Aids is clear: to create lasting change through the power of sport and education. By providing Rohingya youth with opportunities to grow, learn, and lead, RSA is shaping a brighter future for the next generation. Her journey is a testament to how one idea, fueled by passion and determination, can make a profound difference in the lives of others.
