Associazione Sportiva Dilettantistica Balon Mundial Onlus, Italy - More than just a game: New Fivə

"It represents the creation of a new space that we and many of the players, deeply needed.”

Balon Mundial is an organisation that promotes an inclusive society by the activation of people and communities through sports. 

The activities of the association aim to design sport as a tool for social inclusion, education in fair play and respect for rules and conflict resolution. Balon Mundial reach more than 2,000 athletes of all ages and backgrounds every year with their projects.

Their project New Fivə championship is an initiative created by 3 role models within the Balon Mundial community. It originated from the girls' personal need to get involved in sports and personal development, which then became an inspiration for the activation of their leadership.

The project is specifically designed to create a safe and inclusive space where women and non-binary people can play football. It is one of the few championships in Italy, and the only one in the Piedmont region, designed for an entry-level target group. 

It is also accessible to people who struggle financially. The programme involves a low commitment compared to other leagues, allowing girls to play and work at the same time. 

They promote active involvement in the decisions and activities of the tournament. The most identifying part of the tournament is the New Fivə Festival, a training day where all the girls who play in the programme attend various workshops on psychological and physical well-being, and workshops to improve the tactical and technical level of the game. 

They created a safe space for non-binary and women players, to guarantee more accessibility to the 5-side football entry level and to increase knowledge on wellness and reduce discrimination in sport. 

The association hopes to encourage representation and motivation to continue sports and break down barriers.

Olympic Urban Festival, Belgium: Urban Youth Games - The biggest inclusive programme for youth 

“Our goal is to inspire and motivate young people by promoting mutual exchange, sharing societal values, and cultivating their excellence through sports.”

The Urban Youth Games aims to promote social inclusion and unity for the youth. Aligned with the European Commission's vision of community cohesion and social inclusion, the organisation recognises the incredible power of sport and physical activity.

Their goal is to inspire and motivate young people by promoting discussions, sharing values, and cultivating their excellence through sports. 

The organisation provides opportunities for all children, including those from disadvantaged backgrounds, migrants, and those with disabilities, to explore new possibilities. With this programme, they introduce young people to new activities but also to collaborate and creates an inclusive and mutual learning environment. 

This approach unites the Olympic, Paralympic, and Special Olympics movements into one platform for youth, promoting "sport for all." Since the launch in 2018, the Urban Youth Games has expanded geographically, focusing on promoting inclusion through sports across various dimensions. 

The programmes aim to inspire and make a positive impact on countless young individuals, creating a more cohesive and inclusive world where differences are celebrated, and barriers are dismantled.

2023 marked a new milestone with the national event in May. This is the result of several years of work aimed at breaking down barriers at all levels of society.

Monikansallisten naisten hyvinvointi ja liikunta ry, Finland: SwimPower 

“This initiative not only equips individuals with a life-saving skill but also fosters a sense of belonging and empowerment within a supportive community.”

Monaliiku - Well-being and Sports for Multicultural Women is an NGO established in 2009. 

Their mission is to promote health, well-being and physical activities of women and girls through sports and cultural activities, regardless of their religion, skin colour, sexual orientation, or cultural background. 

Their project SwimPower is an initiative of empowerment and skill development for migrant women, offering the opportunity to learn to swim and engage in swimming activities. 

Through a precise planning, SwimPower has successfully integrated over 840 migrant women into swimming and water exercise programs across the last four years. 

Moreover, 92% of participants overcomed their fear of water, learning to swim, or progressing their skills. Swimming emerged as an important form of exercise among migrant women, thanks to SwimPower’s accessibility and encouragement. 

While other organisations may offer swimming classes for migrant women focusing on social interaction and enjoyment, SwimPower prioritises that participants not only learn to swim but also gain confidence and security in aquatic environments.

An essential aspect of their approach is the ongoing invitation for new participants to join as others complete their training, creating a cycle of continuous learning and opportunity.

By focusing on migrant women, SwimPower integrates this diverse group into a larger community through a shared interest in swimming Furthermore, the programme makes sure that new participants always can learn. In this way they can sustain the program and expand their reach.