In a heartwarming tale of triumph against the odds, 16-year-old Sapna Chavan, a resident of a Cuff Parade slum in Mumbai, is on the cusp of realizing her dream of playing international football in the United Kingdom (UK). Sapna's journey is part of a remarkable initiative by the Mumbai-based OSCAR Foundation, which has been transforming the lives of underprivileged youth in the city's slum areas through the beautiful game of football. A detailed report regarding the same was published in Mid-Day.
Football as a Catalyst for Change
Founded by Ashok Rathod, the OSCAR Foundation has been using football as a powerful tool to impart life skills to youngsters in Mumbai's slum pockets. Over the years, the foundation has positively impacted more than 6,500 young lives across diverse Mumbai neighborhoods, including Dharavi, Cuff Parade, Powai, Thane, Jogeshwari, and Marol. By harnessing the universal appeal of football, the foundation not only encourages underprivileged children to stay in school but also helps them develop essential life skills.
A Journey to Remember
Sapna Chavan is set to be one of the 11 youngsters from Mumbai who will embark on a life-changing study tour to the United Kingdom. This initiative, initiated by the OSCAR Foundation, aims to motivate underprivileged children to pursue their education by offering them the opportunity to participate in school-level football tournaments. Joining Sapna are 11 boys and girls from Mumbai's slums, as well as five children from villages near Yadgir in Karnataka. Over the course of two weeks, they will engage in a comprehensive program that combines football competition, education, and cultural exchange.
Football as a Vehicle for Change
Ashok Rathod, the founder of the OSCAR Foundation, revealed that the foundation's journey began when he recognized the alarming rate at which children in Mumbai's slums were dropping out of school and, in some cases, getting involved in anti-social activities. This realization led to the unique initiative where children were given the opportunity to play football, but with one crucial condition – regular school attendance. Rathod firmly believes that "one football can change lives."
Sapna Chavan, excited about her first international trip and being the first in her family to own a passport, shares her enthusiasm. "I'm thrilled to meet international peers, forge new friendships, and learn from them. Four years of playing football at the grassroots level has not only boosted my self-assurance but also deepened my connection with my community." Sapna has become a role model in her neighborhood, inspiring other girls to take up football.
Preparing for the Future
Ashok Rathod emphasizes that the OSCAR Foundation equips underprivileged children with vital life skills to make them resilient and future-ready. Rohit Chavan, a seasoned footballer, echoes this sentiment. He believes that the foundation's program not only imparts valuable life skills but also ensures that they remain committed to their studies. Rohit's passion for the sport has even inspired a friend to join the team, further extending the positive impact of the OSCAR Foundation's mission.
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