Toronto: Drika's football session in Toronto

In Toronto, the #IAmSomebody Tour put youth leadership and peer-to-peer engagement at the heart of the programme, delivered through Street Child United's partnership with Doha Debates.

Drika takes the lead

Young Leader Drika, from Brazil, delivered a football session and workshop for local young people. She began by sharing her own journey, then led icebreakers, small-sided games and reflective discussions designed to build confidence, teamwork and connection through sport.

It's a small difference in wording, but a big one in practice. Drika wasn't being profiled or presented. She was the person running the session.

The Young Leader programme in action

Drika's role shows what the Young Leader Programme is for. Young people who once took part in our programmes are now creating and leading opportunities for others. By sharing her story and taking responsibility for the session, she acted as a peer and role model for the next generation, using football to connect people and encourage them to recognise their own potential.

"This experience gave me more confidence and showed me that I can communicate and connect with people even when we don't speak the same language perfectly." - Drika, Young Leader

Why it matters

A young person who has stood where they stand, and is now leading the session, is often the most convincing proof that things can change. Toronto showed that the pathway was working.