FIVB FoundationVolleyball Foundation
Transformative programme led by the Vanuatu Volleyball Federation promotes social inclusion and gender equity
The FIVB Volleyball Foundation is delighted to announce its support for Volley4Change – Vanuatu, a transformative sport-for-development programme led by the Vanuatu Volleyball Federation (VVF). The initiative joins the Foundation’s growing global family of projects that use volleyball as a powerful tool to promote inclusion and positive social change.
Volley4Change is designed to promote social inclusion and gender equity through volleyball. The initiative empowers women and individuals with disabilities to engage in sport and community leadership while promoting healthier lifestyles through physical activity and nutrition education. It also challenges traditional norms by engaging community leaders and families to encourage inclusion and support. At the same time, Volley4Change is strengthening the internal capacity of the VVF and its partners to deliver inclusive, sustainable programmes long into the future.
Programme activities include gender empowerment and volleyball skills workshops, train-the-trainer sessions and community volleyball events that coincide with international advocacy movements such as International Women’s Day. Delivered progressively across provincial centres in Vanuatu, the programme follows an engagement model that ensures consistent, lasting impact within each community.
Through these efforts, Volley4Change aims to increase the participation of women and people with disabilities in volleyball and leadership roles. It also seeks to strengthen collaboration between government agencies, NGOs and sports organisations to create more inclusive environments for all. In total, the project is expected to reach between 100 and 200 women and around 75 men, with community-wide advocacy and public events extending its reach across the country.
Volleyball Foundation interim President Fabio Azevedo stated:
“What is so special about volleyball is the overwhelmingly positive impact it can have on and off the court, and Volley4Change is a fantastic example of this. Its success has already inspired broader recognition, with the project being highlighted through the Olympism365 initiative as part of the Oceania Impact Network. The International Olympic Committee has expressed strong interest in scaling up this model across the Pacific Islands, recognising its ability to reach thousands, break barriers and transform cultural norms. We are proud to support Volley4Change and look forward to seeing its legacy grow!”
Vanuatu Volleyball Federation President Debbie Masauvakalo stated;
“What I love about volleyball is that it is truly an inclusive sport – men, women, people of all ages and abilities can all play on one team. It brings communities together, challenges social and traditional norms and breaks down barriers.
With the support of the FIVB Volleyball Foundation, I am proud that Volley4Change is empowering women and people with disabilities in Vanuatu to gain confidence, improve their health, learn new skills, build friendships and enjoy playing all forms of volleyball together as one team. Seeing participants grow in confidence and take on leadership roles is so rewarding, and I am grateful for the support of the Foundation as we move into this exciting new chapter.”
By supporting Volley4Change, the Volleyball Foundation reaffirms its commitment to using the global reach and power of volleyball to support community projects worldwide that have a positive impact.
