12/7-2024STEM & Street Sports Project Inspires Young Playmakers in Lebanon

Two inspiring Playmakers at GAME Lebanon’s Tahwitta School in Borj Barajne are making a positive change in their community.

Ahmad Hammoud, 16 years old, found his passion for street sports at GAME since being a player and after two years he was inspired by his role model Playmakers to join the team.

“It all started for me as a player when a coach from GAME came to our school and introduced to us what they do and their activities. My friend and I got excited and went to the zone. After two years, I got motivated to volunteer by the Playmakers that used to train me” Ahmad explained.

Now, being part of the STEM and Street Sports project, Ahmad sees the connection between STEM and his studies in hospitality : mixing ingredients and cooking is also science.

“Im studying hospitality, I think it relates to science by mixing ingredients and cooking. We let the players know the essentials of science, math, and art subjects like knowing how to calculate, recycle, mix colours, build materials ect,… We do this through fun activities on that keeps the children involved and interested in learning more”says Ahmad.

Another young Playmaker is Talia Al Annan, 16 years old, who discovered GAME through friends. Initially hesitant, the warm welcome from the Playmakers  and zone managers encouraged her to join the games.

“The old me wasn’t that much confident because i was scared that other volunteers will not accept me for who i am, but what motivated me to become a Playmaker was actually the support of other Playmakers, coaches and Zone Managers. They were very friendly and always made sure that everyone is included in activities.” Talia explained.

Both Ahmad and Talia use street sports like basketball and football to not only teach skills but also transfer values like problem solving, teamwork, communication, respect, and creativity.

“I just want to say that I’m amazed in how GAME is always striving towards spreading positive energy and motivation amongst others and helping the youth maintain a healthy lifestyle and gain important life skills” says Talia.

Stay tuned for more about the project.

The STEM & Street Sports project is funded by Erik Thunes Legat.