How we're working with young people after the floods

In October 2009, we launched a programme for 50 of the young people left homeless by the floods. One day every week, our educators used sport and fun activities to facilitate discussions and share important information about HIV and AIDS.  These messages will empower the participants to make positive decisions about their sexual health.

In November 2009, 10 Coaching for Hope coaches will work with more than 2,500 vulnerable young people living on four of the largest camps, delivering football sessions to share sexual health messages. SOS SIDA will also be on hand during the tournaments at the end of the courses, with a mobile HIV testing centre which delivers immediate HIV test results and confidential advice to participants and match spectators. All this has been possible thanks to financial support from Plan International and an outstanding individual donation made by Ouaga resident Nathalie Weisman in the name of family and friends who had made a collection for the flood victims.

Experience shows us when a football coach talks about sexual health, kids listen. But when you put those same young people on a football field and make a competitive game out the learning they really listen. To win the game you have to pay attention, and that’s why we advocate an approach to learning that is fun, participatory and active.

In week one of the programme, some of the girls visited a local voluntary HIV testing centre during their lunch break – evidence that the day’s activities had successfully raised awareness and empowered the participants to take control of their lives.  

Coaching for Hope formally registers in Burkina Faso

On 5th March 2009, Skillshare International was formally registered as a charity in Burkina Faso. Coaching for Hope Coordinator Jonathan Lea-Howarth signed the Convention Entre with the Government Department responsible for NGOs in Burkina Faso.

New volunteer features on Canadian TV

Canadian student Sophie Lukacs travelled to Burkina Faso in March 2009 for a three-month internship with Coaching for Hope. Click here then click on 15th March to see a short film about Sophie's preparations.

Jonathan signing an agreement with the Government of Burkina Faso in March 2009.