Introduction
At the iconic StoneX Stadium, Inside Success, partnered with the Rugby Football Union to create “Rising through Rugby.” Part of our mission at Inside Success is to empower young people. This groundbreaking initiative aimed to introduce a diverse group of over 120 young people from across the United Kingdom to the exhilarating world of rugby. Additionally, it also aims to illuminate the myriad of career paths associated with the sport.
Recapping the extraordinary events
The event was a meticulously curated experience designed to break down barriers and foster a love for rugby among participants from various backgrounds. By providing first hand exposure to the sport, Inside Success sought to challenge preconceived notions and inspire a new generation of rugby enthusiasts. The day was filled with a vibrant mix of physical activities, engaging workshops, and inspiring talks from industry experts.
Highlight of the Event
One of the highlights of the event was the presence of distinguished guest speakers. Bobby Kasanga, the visionary founder of Hackney Wick FC, shared his personal journey. He also offered invaluable insights into the power of community and grassroots football. His aim is to make Hackney Wick FC the first professional football Club in Hackney. He’s on the right track, as there has been tremendous growth.
The clubs popularity has resulted in iconic collaborations. They have linked up with Copa90 (1 million Youtube subscribers, 2 million Facebook subscribers), who produced a documentary of their inception as a football club. The entire borough of Hackney has fallen in love with the club because of all the community work the players and staff do on a weekly basis. He has been a good organizer of events and fundraising schemes, currently providing workshops on gangs and peer pressure at primary and secondary schools as well as colleges.
Click the link to find out more about Hackney Wick: https://www.hackneywickfootballclub.com
Zainab Alema and Bobby Kasanga Inspiring Tales
Zainab Alema, a trailblazer in the world of rugby, captivated the audience with her inspiring story and became a role model for aspiring female athletes. She has Ghanaian heritage and is an iconic representative of muslim females in the rugby industry which is male dominated. Zainab also has a rugby charity in partnership with the Atlas Foundation which seeks to use rugby as a vehicle to help women and children in Ghana. Her presence served as a powerful reminder of the inclusivity and diversity that rugby can embrace. She is the future first black muslim woman to play rugby for England.
In terms of accolades she is known for winning the Muslim Woman Award (Sport) 2022 and Women of the Future Award 2022. Inside Success prides her, featuring her the front cover of our magazine and a write up in our inspire me page within our magazine.
Overall, Together, Bobby Kasanga and Zainab Alema offered a potent blend of practical experience, inspirational journeys, and a commitment to inclusivity. They both perfectly align with the goals of “Rising through Rugby.” Their collective presence not only motivated the young participants but also demonstrated the diverse paths that can be taken within the world of sports. Kasanga’s firsthand account of building a successful community-driven club showcased the potential for positive impact, while Alema’s journey as a trailblazing female athlete highlighted the importance of representation and breaking down barriers.
Their shared passion for inclusivity and their unwavering belief in the power of sports to unite and inspire served as a beacon of hope for the young attendees. They were the perfect candidates for this project,
About Rising through Rugby
Beyond the on-field action, “Rising through Rugby” provided participants with a unique opportunity to explore the diverse career landscape within the rugby industry. From seasoned Saracens players to legal professionals, attendees had the chance to engage in meaningful conversations and gain valuable insights into various roles. This exposure to different career paths helped to broaden horizons and inspire participants to consider new possibilities for their future.
Conclusion
In conclusion, “Rising through Rugby” was more than just an event; it was a transformative experience that empowered young people and fostered a love for rugby. By combining physical activity, educational workshops, and inspiring guest speakers, Inside Success and the Rugby Football Union created a memorable occasion that will undoubtedly have a lasting impact on the lives of those 120 young people who attended who participated in the fun conversations and physical activities that day and we are glad our young people got to take away knowledge, insight and amazing opportunities.
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