Volleyball Foundation
The FIVB Volleyball Foundation has today announced an impactful new three-year partnership agreement with the Githurai Kimbo Volleyball Academy (GKVA), with 31 children now benefiting from education scholarships to the Lily Academy, a local primary school in Githurai.
Through the scholarships, the beneficiaries are able to pursue their education whilst actively participating in the GKVA, with the aim of ensuring the children’s personal growth and more future opportunities both on and off the volleyball court.
The selection of scholarship beneficiaries saw a prioritisation of children from the most vulnerable backgrounds who demonstrated academic promise, volleyball potential and a strong desire to learn. Particular consideration was given to those facing challenges such as unstable housing, financial hardship or long travel distances to school, ensuring that support reached those for whom it would be most transformative.
Speaking about the partnership, FIVB Volleyball Foundation Interim President Fabio Azevedo stated:
“At its core, the Volleyball Foundation uses the global reach and power of volleyball to support community projects worldwide that have a positive impact. That is exactly what we aim to achieve through our partnership with the Githurai Kimbo Volleyball Academy. Volleyball requires constant teamwork, communication and coordination both on and off the court, and I hope that through our work with the Academy, we can provide a safe community through volleyball, and that we can connect, inspire and serve the people of Githurai.”
Samuel Gacharira, the CEO of Githurai Kimbo Volleyball Club, said:
“We are extremely grateful to the Volleyball Foundation for considering Githurai Kimbo Academy as one of its pilot projects. The education scholarships will have a lasting impact on the lives of these children and their families. They come from difficult backgrounds and through volleyball, they now have a chance to lift their families from poverty which goes to show the social power of our sport. This is just the beginning and I’m confident that through this partnership we can inspire thousands of children in Githurai and beyond, and that through volleyball, they can dream of a bright future and have an equal chance in life,” said Samuel, himself a beneficiary of the Academy.
(Photo credits: too_twenty)
