ESPN builds and dedicates its second multifunctional sports space in India
Community leaders, residents, and youth gathered in Dharavi, Mumbai on 29 May to participate in the opening of a new, multifunctional sports space dedicated to the local community and its residents. Built to Play is a global project, led by ESPN. This is the second Built to Play project undertaken by ESPN in India, following one in Bangalore in 2017, and its ninth globally.
The court and surrounding area, refurbished with the help of community residents and employees, will provide a safe place to play for the surrounding community, as well as offer programmes for young people in the community aimed at teaching life-skills and empowering them to fulfill their potential, all through the power of sports.
Magic Bus, a non-profit organisation with its roots firmly set in India, will deliver the programme. Magic Bus will strive to equip children and young people of Dharavi with the essential skills and knowledge to be able to break the cycle of poverty, take control of their lives and become active members of their community. These life-skills – ranging from education and gender equality to health and employability – will be taught by youth leaders from within the community, with support and training from Magic Bus’s unique mentorship programme.
Ramesh Kumar, Vice President, ESPN India and South Asia; Kevin Martinez, Vice President, ESPN Corporate Citizenship; former Indian cricketers Ajit Agarkar, Murali Kartik and West Indian cricketer Daren Ganga attended the event along with employees, community volunteers who helped build the space, residents and their families. Raunak Kapoor, ESPN India presenter and RJ Adaa (Priti Jolly), Radio Jockey were the hosts of the day.
The celebration comprised cultural performances, special recognition of community leaders who volunteered their time, and sports activities open to the community.
“At ESPN we believe that sports have the ability to transform lives, and we are proud to be able to support and empower communities like Dharavi to unlock the benefits that sports offer,” said Kevin Martinez. “Both love.fútbol and Magic Bus have been outstanding partners on this project, helping build this safe space in a community where there is a need and where it can truly make a difference.”
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