News / Bristol Somali Youth Voice
Communities unite for sports event in Lockleaze
People from different backgrounds and postcodes united together in Lockleaze for a day of sports and friendship.
Bristol Somali Youth Voice hosted the event on Sunday as a way of breaking down barriers and building bridges between groups across the city, as well as police and community leaders.
It also provided a space for people to talk about their mental and social wellbeing – and the ongoing impact of Covid-19.
Mohamed A Sayaqle, chair of Bristol Somali Youth Voice and member of the organising team, said positive events such as this help prevent anti-social behaviour – and its root causes – by encouraging young people to come together and talk about their struggles, challenges and achievements.
“These football sessions aim to engage and educate young people and give them space to involve sport activities, socialise and interact with other young people,” says Mohamed.
“Being role models to each other and showcase their skills and talents, this is will hopefully divert young people towards positive causes.”
Speaking to the young people who turned out for the event, Mohamed Elsharif, a community development manager at Bristol City Council, said: “You are future leaders of our city of Bristol, this is inspiring to [see you] be role models to each other.”
Abdul Ahmed, who was also coordinating the event, added: “Bringing the community together, especially young people, is amazing. We need this kind of event to improve our wellbeing and recover from hardship of Covid-19”.
The sports event hosted by Bristol Somali Youth Voice encouraged people from different communities to come together – photo courtesy of Bristol Somali Youth Voice
Main photo courtesy of Bristol Somali Youth Voice
Read more: Simran Jhamat: ‘I want to be a role model for the younger generation’
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