It’s that time again when I head off to the Homeless World Cup, this year in Amsterdam.
This will be the 7th year attending each one has its own unique flavour and atmosphere. The one consistent is the overwhelming feeling of joy, inspiration and camaraderie.
If you weren’t aware it was where the long journey of Streets Revolution began back in 2009.
Since then I have been fortunate enough to not only attend every year, but meet some wonderful human beings that have inspired me and made me aware of the HOPE that the simple act of kicking a ball together can bring.
My perceptions have been changed, my education although not complete has been thorough. I’ve been challenged about how I think about homelessness and what that means in different parts of the world.
The Netherlands has in Amsterdam approached the issue of homelessness in a way tackling the problem at the root cause.
Here is a link and a more in depth look it makes for interesting reading;
http://whatsupwithamsterdam.com/homeless-in-amsterdam/
I never really know what to expect the people I meet and the conversations I will have. I can guarantee a few things, great football, awesome people, inspirational stories and reassurance that despite the societal problems, economic difficulties and rising pressure across the globe as homelessness is on the increase, that there are people working hard to end this situation, that sport has a part to make a difference. That there is light at the end of that tunnel. There is HOPE.
Please follow some of these stories here and visit the Homeless World Cup website to get live action and be part of it wherever you are.
https://www.homelessworldcup.org/tournament/
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