Hope Academy National Project Flag

  • Award Entered:
    Sport For Social Inclusion Award
  • Parent Organisation:
    Ambassadors In Sport
  • Project Host Nation:
    South Africa
  • Overview of Project:
    The Hope Academy program trains the children 3 days a week and plays matches on the weekend. Each child is placed in a development plan which is monitored by their coach. The coach also works alongside the families in the development of the child / juvenile offender. Each child in the Hope Academy is impacted holistically to make strong and wise decisions in all areas of life when they grow up or leave prison. In South Africa there is a lack of strong male or female leaders in our communities. The Hope Academy program aims to impact children over a long period of time and invest heavily into their lives at every level. Our aim is to see the Academy members go on to become strong, positive leaders with good morals in the sporting or commercial world. The Hope Academy program is about impacting the next generation who will go onto to teach and show others how to make wise life choices and thus combat HIV/AIDS, crime, abuse, inequality and poverty.

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John Boggs: 01 Jun 2010 - 17:57 BST

Having been involved in prison work myself on several occasions, I can sincerely say that nothing I've seen has been more powerfully impactful and life-changing than that which is being done through Hope Academy! We will never fully realise just how many lives have been changed and given new hope through the vision and actions of Hope Academy.

John Boggs: 01 Jun 2010 - 17:57 BST

Having been involved in prison work myself on several occasions, I can sincerely say that nothing I've seen has been more powerfully impactful and life-changing than that which is being done through Hope Academy! We will never fully realise just how many lives have been changed and given new hope through the vision and actions of Hope Academy.

Jenny Mason: 31 May 2010 - 16:03 BST

Hope Academy is run by people who genuinely seek a better life for young people in South Africa. Our youth need good, Godly role models to look to in the way they behave and see their future. This team of people are providing this precious gift to them. They are most deserving of recognition for what they have done and will continue to do.

Ajuma Ottache: 30 May 2010 - 23:20 BST

Hope Academy is a wonderful project and I am amazed looking at the impact it has achieved in South Africa.I believe that people should support this project as it gives hope to the hopeless most especially to the youth who are the future leaders of tomorow.

James Oliver: 30 May 2010 - 22:41 BST

Hope Academies are amazing programs where lives are genuienly transformed and that is for everyone involved in them both those participating and serving. Its great to see such professionalism in a ministry program and the impact thats its having we can only fully know one day in heaven. It is awesome.

Peter Ottache: 30 May 2010 - 14:15 BST

Hope Academy Program is a strategic program that has a long term carefully plan method to Impact the live of the child that pass through the program,the beauty of Hope Academy program is the follow up system that happen after the child leaves the prison which help in integrating the child back into the community as agent of change because of the transformed life of the child. the team behind this program are focus minded people and deserve all the encouragement they can get to enable them bring HOPE to the children who are the future of the world.

Jac-Louis van Rooyen: 29 May 2010 - 22:35 BST

It is wonderful to see the impact that Hope Academy makes, even in a often forgotten people of Africa- the poor, afflicted and offended. It does not only offer them the opportunity to play football and hope, but it trains them for a for a better life off the the football pitch. It brings hope where it was lost and equips for life!

vincent: 29 May 2010 - 19:28 BST

This is a great vision that should be spread to the rest of humanity. Everybody makes mistakes and a second chance is what Hope Academy is offering .

Pauline: 29 May 2010 - 12:56 BST

I am a missionary. I have worked with some of the members of AIS in different projects. I have seen children lives and behaviour changed from worse to good. AIS does a great job working with street children, orphans and mentoring young responsible leaders. The leaders spend extra hours putting together training manuals, running workshops and clinics in different places, encouraging the young people to be obedient to their parents and to respect other people. I hope AIS can develop more similar programs in other countries.

Gina: 29 May 2010 - 03:50 BST

Hope Academy is an investment in young peoples lives to help the next generation. The people involved have a real heart for these children and are going beyond just talking about making a change, they are making a difference in their lives. There is a bond created with a sport that they love and then with love they are able to change the direction of these young peoples lives.

Greg Thomson: 28 May 2010 - 14:48 BST

We at the Lee Sharpe Foundation have been privelaged to witness first hand the fantasic Hope Academy Projects over a number of years. We are proud to support the amazing people who work on the projects and also we have been truly inspired by the transformation of the young people we have met, who have already, and continue to benefit from the Project. For us at the Lee Sharpe Foundation - this project and all the great people involved in it, sets the standard by which others should be judged and truly makes a difference.

Gareth Simpson: 28 May 2010 - 14:32 BST

I have seen Ambassador's Hope Acadamy DVD and have been deeply impressed by the work that they are doing there. The testimonies of the young men who have been changed by the programme are an incredible encouragement and challenge. Keep up the faithful and great work AIS.

Lee Sharpe Foundation: 28 May 2010 - 14:30 BST

Hope Academy plays a vital role in the progression and success of the young people they are involved with. In short they make a huge difference and impact young people dramatically with their imput, guidance and support. We are delighted to be associated with Hope Academy and are enjoying seeing the young people changing their vision and believing they can have a successful future . Lee Sharpe, Greg Thomson, Colin and Tina Booth.

Matt Pheneger: 28 May 2010 - 14:03 BST

Hope is a rare commodity, especially in a prison. This program has & will continue to impact the young men that are a part of Hope Academy as well as envisioning countless others to become engaged in people's lives to offer hope in desperate circumstances.

Robert Munnick - GOD TV: 28 May 2010 - 12:16 BST

Dear Reader, Everybody needs more than a second chance in life, and I believe that this is what Hope Academy is all about. Teaching, training and influeincing children that have come from diastrate situations is a continual work that cannot be ignored. They need all the love and acceptance they can get so that they can become catalylists in the nations of the world. I endorse any program that Ambassadors in Sport initiate because they operate with the most important ingrediant in life - INTEGRITY! They are skilled and compitent at what they do and the fruit of their work shows in the lives that are transformed.

Lesley: 28 May 2010 - 11:37 BST

LegalWise is proud to be associated with the dedicated people of the Hope Academy in Soweto, South Africa in our committment to community development.

Olive Wachera: 28 May 2010 - 08:32 BST

Am so blessed by the work that AIS is doing, I feel privileged to be associated with them. I have had the opportunity to observe their work from a distance and appreciate the outcome that results from their efforts. They train the young members of the society on very key skills, team work and community service. If you don't work together then change is not possible but when you do then not only is it possible but it is also long lasting because everyone involved has a sense of belonging and takes up the challenge of making it the best it can be. The element of community service reminds us that charity begins at home. I would like to take this opportunity to not only congratulate them but to also share with others how much I appreciate what they have done for our young men through soccer. Thank you AIS for making our young men responsible for both themselves and for the community, and for making the process enjoyable for all those involved. Please keep up the good work and remain blessed.

Edna Alaro: 28 May 2010 - 06:44 BST

Hope Academy is fantastic. It has transformed and still is transforming many lives. Apart from soccer which is fun,the young people are rehabilitated and given another chance in life.Isn't this a wonderful thing for someone that had lost hope? They also receive life skills that give them a chance to stand on their own as well as contribute to their communiities. The team is very dedicated and hardworking.Kudos to the team! kudos to the academy!

Jenny Craggs: 27 May 2010 - 20:08 BST

The Hope Academy does just that, it gives real hope to young people that otherwise would have no hope and no future. Everyone deserves a second opportunity and the Academy gives young people the skills, ethics and self-belief to make something of their lives.

Matt: 27 May 2010 - 19:05 BST

Hope academies are doing just what the name implies, giving people hope. Through building long-term lasting relationships, AIS has helped people transform their lives by giving them life skills, mentoring, and a spiritual foundation. The Hope Academies are one of the most successful sports ministries that I have seen.

Hellen Sewe: 27 May 2010 - 15:21 BST

The hope Academy has been more than a blessing than they know. they have given these young boys a chance to believe and to stand for something.it has taught them good morals hence bringing up and raising men of substance, who are upright in every way. they now have a place to belong to and like any human being we all need this. thank you Hope Academy for the good work that you are doing, towards making our community a better place.

Will Weaver: 27 May 2010 - 13:58 BST

AIS Hope Academies are a sustainable programme which enables the lives of children and young people to develop in their love for football and their lives as people. Hope for the future as well as opportunity for the present is an essential part of the programme which faithful coaches endeavour to address. I have seen this programme in action and been brought to tears as I see the progress of offenders and testimonies of the change that AIS are having in their situation. The excitement that community based programmes create in boys and girls are a reminder of how important early and calculated investment has to be.

Martha Shidogo: 27 May 2010 - 13:22 BST

This is for sure An institute of learning the boys are taught about Football/Faith/Future with Excellence! AIS staff and volunteers take time and run this program three times a week for the boys. One of the greatest testimonies that I heard from the boys was when one boy said “We should not blame being here on ‘POVERTY’ it’s just that we did not have the knowhow of what to do and the proper models”. Another boy said he wants to put up a website and start an awareness campaign of going to schools to educate the youth and tell them about their life and how prison life is; their ending up there is because no one told them how prison life is and how to stay out of prison. They now want to help other to avoid the same experience they have gone through. This is just a proof of how they are grown through the program. Most of these boys were being raised by single parents (especially mothers) who end up parenting alone in a deprived society. Either way they say that there is no excuse because they know of people who made it out of prison with the same situations and circumstances and they had equally the same opportunity. It’s amazing how their minds have been transformed. I thank God for the work He’s doing in their lives.

Daniel Bull: 27 May 2010 - 13:11 BST

Hope Academy is doing a great job of supporting those in the real need, trying to give them hope of better future. Long may the work continue!

Brenda akinyi: Kenya: 27 May 2010 - 13:04 BST

I believe that the hope academy program is a powerful tool that is currently influencing and shaping the lives of tomorrow's leaders and providing sound mentorship for the next generation.

Michael Githui: 27 May 2010 - 12:12 BST

Great Work Hope Academy.

Nasco Mihaylov: 27 May 2010 - 10:52 BST

We (AFCCT) have played a friendly game against the guys from the Hope academy. I must say it is a bit intimidating when you walk through the prison courts and see barb wire, bars, uniforms. We were there for just over two hours...these guys are there for years and years. They have little hope of any joy or peace. The academy teaches them not only how to play soccer, but also gives them hope for their lives. The boys feel loved, they can see that someone genuinely cares for them and wants them to have a future. The program also opens their hearts to each other as to the Lord. They realize that relationships are very important and no matter how broken their lives may appear to be, they can see that no one is beyond the point of no return. Reconciliation is a big part of their recovery program. The work done at the Hope academy is commendable to say the least. In Christ alone!

Harold Bennett: 27 May 2010 - 00:35 BST

I saw a DVD in London, UK (in Dec 09) about the work Hope Academy do . Was so challenge by what I saw I contacted them and have been given the opportunity to fly over to SA to lend some support to the great work they have been entrusted with, in helping to transform lives. With God all things are possible!

Martin Bateman: 26 May 2010 - 23:09 BST

I have been involved in community projects through sport on five continents and the Hope Academy provides one of the best programmes I have seen - a very practical way to impact the key people in society - those who will be people of influence in the future. I would heartily endorse their nomination and hope that the project continues to succeed.

Graham and Barbara Tyldsley: 26 May 2010 - 22:18 BST

It is very encouraging to hear about the work that is being done and we pray for the young people and those who work with them.

Mark Reitinger: 26 May 2010 - 21:52 BST

When I visited South Africa and witnessed the incredible needs of its people I was moved beyond measure. Hope Academy and the wonderful people who serve through this ministry are doing the work that Jesus did amongst the hurting and broken people of that beautiful land. H.A. has chosen to meet young prisoners where they are, giving them what is most needed - namely Hope.

Frances Bastable: 26 May 2010 - 14:51 BST

Hope Academy are doing such a vital job investing in the lives of very disadvantaged young people to give them life skills and hope for a better future. The team is hugely committed and deserves all the encouragement it can get.

Casey: 26 May 2010 - 14:45 BST

Hope Academy is run by great people with a great long term vision. That's what will make it successful. It's not in this for a short burst but for the long haul. The kids they are working with need consistent mentoring and teaching, the Hope Academy provides that!

David Oakley: 26 May 2010 - 14:44 BST

Hope Academy is without doubt one of the most life transforming models of intentional action for the poor and vulnerable that I have seen in my 20 years of charitable work. It is the standard that other models should be judged on terms of workers, relevance, impact, results, curriculum etc. I am not surprided that it is being reproduced in other prisons across South Africa.

Irvine Clements: 26 May 2010 - 14:43 BST

I am local photographer & have assisted AIS by filming & documenting their prison support with youth in notorious Poolsmoor prison,Cape Town since 2004.Visiting groups to SA such as Lee-Sharpe Foundation(ex-Man United player) to youth have had profound impact in highlighting this plight. I have witnessed hardened criminal youth being transformed through this investment in their lives.Other youth have also benefitted in coaching clinics on Cape Flats,developing & nurturing already skilled youngsters many of whom I believe will be on the international circuit sometime soon. Other activities in Africa including soccer camps in Ghana 2008, experdition to Kilimanjaro 2009 also proves commitment to calling, to give hope using soccer as main focus.Conditions were often challenging but endorse their efforts for making a much needed difference in communities which otherwise would be marginalised. I have been personally encouraged to be involved with AIS and pledge ongoing support in documenting this journey of transformation valuable lives they impact. Regards Irvine Clements(Van Kalker Productions)

John Yip: 26 May 2010 - 14:02 BST

Africa is a fatherless continent. I believe that many if not most, of Africa's problems are caused by children and youth not having father figures who teach and model the right values. One cannot not underestimate the critical role played by the coach in partnership with the families! I am in full support of the Hope Academy as it is an important step forward in bringing the 'fathers' back into the lives of the people who need them most - African children and youth.

Ray Tucker: 26 May 2010 - 12:46 BST

I have had the privelage of personally witnessing the work of the Hope Academy and meeting some of the young people on the programme. It is clearly having a major impact in their lives which is evident in many of those who have come through the programmes with new hope and skills to live different lives, contributing positively to their communities.

Heinrich Jacobs: 26 May 2010 - 11:29 BST

I have had the privilege of meeting some of the boys in the Hope Academy in a few different settings. Playing against them in the prison, chatting with them at coaching sessions in prison. I have had opportunities of doing outreaches & soccer clinics outside the prison. The Best was playing along side them when we played matches against local teams from the communities, that we where doing outreaches in. There is a huge change in them. Change from a life of prison (before the program) which is so negative to a life that is positive.You can hear it in there actions as well as in the conversation that they are full of hope.

Adam Bull: 26 May 2010 - 10:55 BST

I'm the head coach at the Hope Academy. It was been an honor to leave the UK and family and friends to join in with the vison of the Hope Academy, the way the program is set up and the opps it gives to invest and speak into these future leaders lives is amazing. I'm please to be part of this project and am looking to help take it forward.

Andre Alexander: 26 May 2010 - 10:07 BST

I believe that The Hope Academy is a life changing initiative that is currently impacting our youth, riddled with low self esteem, moral decay and substance abuse being the highest in the Western Cape . Thus through addressing their Football, Faith & Future the programme is transforming them inn these areas . Please support the project.

Pete Wright: 25 May 2010 - 23:04 BST

Amazing work going on here. We all need at times to be given another chance. This project allows another chance to many who would otherwise spiral into a complete life of crime and prison. Tremendous dedication is shown by the staff who have a genuine committment to better these youngsters lives. A deserving organisation to have some true and meaningful recognition.

Ryan: 25 May 2010 - 22:55 BST

I have witnessed first hand the way in which this Academy has changed the lives of those who have been apart of it. So many lives have been destroyed and become hopeless due to the trials of life in the poor parts of Africa and they concede to the illegal activities so they can survive, but many have been impacted so much by the love of this academy, that their lives have been changed forever and they have been given real hope. Those who visit will witness this as i did.

Gerry Slessenger: 25 May 2010 - 17:40 BST

The name say's it all. HOPE Academy. Young gifted people, are given hope through the work the Academy provides , with a strong infrastructure on morals, ethics and faith. By helping to break the crime cycle, Hope Academy working alongside AIS enables young people to have self worth and dignity, and a vision for their future. Changing young lives for the better and giving them a desire for that change, is what AIS is all about.

Kevin Johnson: 25 May 2010 - 15:37 BST

The Hope Academy provides a path to positive change for a generation of young men and women in South Africa that have been given little other hope in their lives. The work they do is truly inspiring and vitally important...please do all you can to support them in their vision of changing the lives of many in South Africa.

Tim Maynard - UK: 25 May 2010 - 14:41 BST

Having seen at first hand the impact of the Hope Academy at Leeuwkop prison in Johannesburg I wholeheartedly endorse the programme. This is not just about soccer, but about re-habilitating all aspects of the academy members lives. Restoring young men who will shape the nation of South Africa has to be paramount. I cannot say enough to state the value of this project!

Chris Scott: 25 May 2010 - 13:33 BST

I am a supporter of the Hope Academy and have had the privelage of visiting them in Drakenstein prison. The work they do in the traumatised society of South Africa is wonderful. Its this kind of in depth care and investment in people that can turn the future of that country around. Keep it up!

Nic Bianchi: 25 May 2010 - 12:20 BST

What a fantastic project! Hope Academy go right into the heart of the problem and tackle it head on. Sorry, that was an awful pun. But seriously, they do an amazing work with young people and help transform lives through channelling their energy and passion into a drive to succeed and better themselves. Having spent several years in Southern Africa I can understand projects like this are really able to impact on communities - especially those who face isolation, prejudice and stigmatisation. I hope to see more projects following their lead before long. And what an amazing opportunity the World Cup is presenting this team! All the best guys. Nic

Louise Nadin: 25 May 2010 - 11:31 BST

I believe that Hope Academies have the potential to effect the kind of deep change in peoples lives that can have a positive effect, not just on surface behavior or on an individual level, but within the lives of communities and cultures. Also, they have particular appeal to boys and young men that are usually hard to reach.

James: 25 May 2010 - 11:14 BST

A wonderful project that gives real hope to boys who have made a mistake and fallen on the wrong side of the track. This project offers a second chance at life and will impact well beyond the actual boys concerned.

Anneke Kriek: 25 May 2010 - 10:56 BST

I think this is a wonderful project. We've had the privilege of interacting with the team. The Hope Academy really makes a tremendous difference in their lives, and gives them something to live for. When they are released from prison, they go out and make a difference in their communities and in the lives of their families.

Helen Martin: 25 May 2010 - 10:37 BST

Great to see such valuable work taking place. Should we not all say there but for the Grace of God go I. So good to see the privileges many of us take for granted being extended to those who have not had the benefit. With God all things are possible - to live by his standards and in His Grace is the wisest choice we can ever make :O). Keep up the wonderful work and I pray God will richly bless you all.

Jayne Williams: 25 May 2010 - 10:25 BST

Hope Academy is making a real difference in the lives of young people - and one that lasts for the rest of their lives. They bring hope and purpose to lives where before there was little or none. The leaders encourage the young people through example and strong leadership and by working alongside them help them to develop in all areas of their lives. They are doing a brilliant work.

Julian Hillman: 25 May 2010 - 10:20 BST

Hope Academy South Africa is a fantastic project making a real difference to the lifes of the prisoners that the team work with. Using football & lifeskills within the prison environment shows that there can be a second chance for those members. I have immense respect for the team working in the environment.

Spencer Courtis: 25 May 2010 - 10:01 BST

I am the Communications Officer for the South African Christian Football Association (SACFA). May I verify that the Ambassadors in Sport (AIS) Hope Academy project is a most noble cause in reaching the hearts of young prison offenders and their families. Whilst the young stem is bendable, there is still hope – and that is what the Hope Academy is about. I take my hat off and salute all those fine men and women who sacrifice their time and ‘careers’ in order to bring hope, Hope Academy, to a hurting South Africa. These folk work where ‘the rubber hits the road’! God bless Hope Academy! Spencer Courtis - SACFA | o21 531 3857 | 084 370 5010

Ian Walton: 25 May 2010 - 09:08 BST

This is an amazing way to reach out to a young generation facing challenges bigger than they know. The program is holistic and looks beyond the circumstances and stereotypes, using sport and activity and love to bring out the beautiful human spirit in these kids.

Tim Tucker: 25 May 2010 - 08:33 BST

We believe the Hope Academy strategy will influence a generation of young soccer players who in turn will become future leaders in Africa. Please support this project in any way you can!

Vic Rooza, Cape Town, SA: 25 May 2010 - 08:11 BST

This project has had a profound effect on young delinquents, especially those from diadvantaged communites. There is a high illitericy rate in these communities, usually leading to unemployment, drugs, gangsterism, crime and eventually prison. The holisitic approach of Hope Academy using football as a medium, seeks to provide a new hope of complete rehabilitation and brings about a sense of belonging and worth, along with new-found skills that eventually leads to employment and re-integration back into society

Michael Ferguson: 25 May 2010 - 00:20 BST

Great program. Great leaders and great members in this academy. This is a program that raises leaders that will change a country.

Danielle Davidson: 25 May 2010 - 00:19 BST

Hope Academy is an amazing program. We saw it in its early stages and it is even more full of the integrity and life changing impact now! This is a program that truly changes lives and whole communities through those lives.

gary maunder: 24 May 2010 - 23:33 BST

I have been proud to support hope academy in the wonderful work they continue to do. much love to you all, Gary & Jane

Lynda Barrow: 24 May 2010 - 22:28 BST

Football is a great way to get young people together. To meet friends, interact and keep fit. The Hope Academy is doing a good job organising young people and giving them an opportunity to learn skills and a fun time competing with matches at the weekend. To give them a positive approach to life and become independent.

jan slessenger: 24 May 2010 - 22:12 BST

The Hope academy program is an amazing inavation which reaches many socially deprived youths and children, who through no fault of their own have not been able to achieve or succeed . Through this program they are given self worth, confidence and self esteem. They are taught life skills to enable them to be honourable, honest and become responsible members of their communities. Through sport they are taught about team work, supporting others, being accountable to other team members. I believe that Hope Academy will be used greatly to affect many under privileged young lives not only in South Africa but all across the continent, bringing Hope for the next generation.

Angie Fletcher: 24 May 2010 - 21:37 BST

Fantastic project, great vision and commitment, really makes a difference to these young people.

Kirsty Slessenger: 24 May 2010 - 20:55 BST

The Hope Academy is a revolutionary programme which has transformed thinking regarding prisoner rehabilitation in South Africa, so much so that the Department of Correctional Services has implemented this model in other areas of prison life. It is an awesome programme that deserves recognition.

Mike Taylor: 24 May 2010 - 17:48 BST

What a great way of providing much needed support and encouragement for deprived youngsters to develop leadsership and a sound moral approach to sport and life.

David La Bouchardiere: 24 May 2010 - 17:30 BST

As the Chairman of the SACFL 92007-20090 - A League consisting of over 30 Adult teams and operating in Surrey and Middlesex I am pleased to have this opportunity to endorce the work of Ambassadors in Sport and the Hope Academy work they are doing in South Africa. We (SACFL) have supported AIS as a League for many years and receive regular updates on their good work. The Hope Academy Programme is literally a life changing opportunity given to S. African young men who are encouraged to become positive role models for other men and then go on to use sport and football in their future leadership roles. Well done A.I.S.- Outstanding

Declan Flanagan: 24 May 2010 - 17:29 BST

People like these make an enormous difference in attempting to reshape the lives of those who often have little opportunity and an uncertain future.

Claire Ralf: 24 May 2010 - 17:24 BST

I would like to see Hope Academy win the Beyond Sport Award in 2010 - the year the world cup comes to South Africa. The project has been an inspiration to many young black remand prisoners and offenders, giving them a sense of their own self-worth. It has come to the attention of those responsible for South Africa's prisons who see the need for such a programme to be rolled out across the country.

Marianne Strydom: 24 May 2010 - 17:12 BST

This to me is an absolutely amazing project - the difference they bring to the lives of these young men who would otherwise not have had much of a future or positive outlook on life is significant and heart warming! They actually realise that they have a purpose in life and that they do not need to resort to crime to make themselves a living or create attention. They also have the wonderful opportunity to now go out and make a difference in their community all contributing to a positive and crime free environment. This project also effects other prisoners and wardens as they live the changes in these peoples lives. It would be wonderful if this project could be extended to all prisons in South Africa. The community should get more actively involved in this wonderful project!

Luke: 24 May 2010 - 17:07 BST

I know the academy in their capacity working in the prison. To me, it is one of the best programmes around, it is amazing to see them at work in the prison and the change that is evident in the boys. I have been involved in charity work for the last 8 years and have been involved using sport to try and change youth at risk and I can say in all honesty that the hope academy is with out a doubt one of the best programmes I have ever seen. 2 big thumbs up from me. Luke Baker

David Bentley: 24 May 2010 - 17:05 BST

The work of Hope Academy is surely the ultimate in 'Sport for Social Inclusion', providing a great outlet to youngsters whose lives have been sadly impacted by various events/circumstances. The Academy gives these young people hope, purpose, and a good reason to get up in the morning, and ultimatly move on to be good citizens as a result of the discipline, team working, and 'direction' instilled by their passion for sport.

nick adams: 24 May 2010 - 17:04 BST

this project provides a realistic and practical way of mentoring /motivating young men who have got caught up in criminal activities and even gangs.The coach replaces the the gang leader teaching new skills and insights whicheables ayoung person to understand choices and conseqences.its this sort of project that will have such a vital impact and break the cycle of crime.

Dave Waters: 24 May 2010 - 16:48 BST

I think the key to assessing how successful this is as a program is to look at boys who have been out the program for 2, 3, 4 years. I have met some of these boys who were in the program in the past. What has struck me is the clear sense of purpose and direction in life. Keep up with the fantastic work!

Bryan Chud: 24 May 2010 - 16:43 BST

I had the opportunity to observe and take part in the Hope Academy program along with 15 young men from Northern Ireland in the summer of 2008, and I can say with confidence that I have never seen such an effective and inspirational program using sport as the medium for life change. Not only was I impacted, but the 16 year old boys that I had with me were impacted dramatically and 2 years on are still talking about the incredible experience.

Andy Hawkins: 24 May 2010 - 16:40 BST

The Hope Academy offers not only a strong and qualitative programme but more importantly it is delivered by a team with integrity and compassion. This is a winning combination in providing authentic life changing solutions of hope and possibilities. Well done Hope Academy!

Bruce Nadin: 24 May 2010 - 16:34 BST

There are many great projects and programs running in South Africa. The difference with this one is that it is extra-ordinary! It is being used to change lives and transform communities in a way that will have a lasting impact f0r generations to come. Africa's future leaders will come from programs like this one. Every Province, every City and every Town should have one!

Steve: 24 May 2010 - 16:34 BST

This is an excellent program and is really impacting the community. Steve (Cape Town, South Africa)

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