Alex and the desire to challenge himself – Sport For Change

In Salvador de Bahia, where every opportunity can make a difference, there are children growing up with the desire to feel that they belong to something. One of them is Alex.

Alex is ten years old and, supported by the Sport for Change programme, takes part in futsal and basketball activities at the “Giovanni Paolo II” sports centre, which he discovered while attending an academic support course. At first, he would simply watch the other children train, unable to take part also because of his fear of putting himself forward. Among them was his friend Léo, and day by day, within him grew the desire to step onto the court.

Over time, that curiosity turned into passion. Alex began training and gradually started to feel like part of the team. What once seemed out of reach became a real and meaningful presence in his daily life. Today, every game represents something important to him. Stepping onto the court fully engages him and allows him to recognize the journey he has made, both on and off the court.

Sport has also had a significant impact on his self-confidence. Alex feels more confident and determined, more aware of his abilities and goals. During training sessions, he has also learned the value of teamwork. One particular experience helped him reflect on how important it is to share the game with others, encouraging him to approach every match with greater awareness, responsibility, and respect for his teammates.

For Alex, the project has become an important point of reference: a place where he feels included and part of something meaningful.