From Funds to the Field: Empowering Youth Through Sports Equipment –
by Juliette Van Der Ham, UTS Mauritius Sports Co-ordinator
Sometimes, the simplest acts can have the biggest impact. That’s what Mike and I (Juliette) discovered when we decided to get involved with United Through Sports Mauritius, a new division of sports charity working to empower and inspire young people in Mauritius through the power of sport. What began as a way to support a great cause soon turned into an unforgettable experience that reminded us of the power of community, teamwork, and giving back.
The charity’s biggest challenge at the time that we arrived was equipment, and we knew we could contribute in this area. To get more kids involved and ensure they had access to proper sports gear, we set ourselves the goal of raising funds for new equipment. For several weeks, we reached out to friends, family, and colleagues, explaining what we were supporting and why it mattered. It was not long before we started receiving donations and pledges of support. Every contribution, no matter how big or small, felt like a step closer to helping United Through Sport fulfil its mission.
We were thrilled to announce that we raised a total of 315 towards the cause! The money we raised would go directly towards buying new sports equipment, helping the charity expand its programs and providing more opportunities for the kids involved.
Here is a breakdown of the equipment we were able to purchase with the funds raised:
- 10 footballs: For the young football players to practice their skills and play the game they love.
- 1 ballbag: To safely store and transport all the balls for the sessions.
- 5 handballs: For introducing new sports and providing more variety in activities.
- 15 bibs: To ensure the children can be easily identified during games and training, helping with organisation.
- First aid kit: To ensure the safety and well-being of the participants during their sporting activities.
- Ball pump: To keep the equipment in good condition and always ready for use.
- 80 cones: For marking out training areas, creating drills, and improving coordination and agility.
- 12 flat cones: To use for low-impact activities and games that require a more subtle marking system.
- 2 shoe bags: To store the bibs neatly and keep them organized, clean, and ready for the next session.
What struck us the most during this experience was how sports can bring people together in a meaningful way. Even though we were raising funds from afar, we felt like part of something bigger—a global movement of people working towards a common goal. The children who would benefit from this equipment may never know our names, but through our efforts, we were able to make sure they had access to the tools that would help them grow, learn, and thrive.
Having utilised the new equipment in over 40 sessions, we have been able to enhance our approach and introduce more creativity into our drills. This has had a tangible impact on the students, as it reduces waiting times and allows for more individual participation, resulting in increased time spent on the ball and more effective skill development.
As we reflect on our experience, it’s clear that the power of sport goes beyond just physical activity—it’s about creating opportunities, building relationships, and making a real difference in the lives of those who need it most. Mike and I are grateful for the chance to contribute to such a meaningful cause, and we hope that our efforts inspire others to get involved and make their own difference, too.
Juliette Van Der Ham and Mike James, UTS Mauritius Sports Co-Ordinators
