Play It Forward Sports Program
Athlete Rising Program
WHY WE CARE
We believe in the transformative power of sports, especially for children from underserved communities. Beyond physical activity, sports teach discipline, teamwork, leadership, and resilience—qualities essential for building confidence and broadening horizons. However, many children lack access to proper facilities and coaching due to socio-economic barriers. By recognizing talent and providing support, we aim to give every child the opportunity to thrive, both on and off the field.
WHAT WE DO
In partnership with Shreeja India, we offer football training for girls from tribal and rural backgrounds, paired with health workshops focused on nutrition, exercise, and sanitation. Our program also includes tournaments, events, and awareness sessions on menstrual hygiene, sexual health, and environmental issues. Additionally, through the Vidushee Program, older Shreeja girls teach younger children, earning stipends to support their families.
In Kolkata, our Sports Development Programme with Hope Kolkata Foundation provides coaching, uniforms, and equipment for football, cricket, and taekwondo to children in childcare centers. This initiative helps foster physical fitness, teamwork, and essential life skills, enriching the lives of these children both on and off the field.
OUR IMPACT IN NUMBERS
60
underprivileged rural girls from indigenous communities receive football training integrated with mental health support
110
first-generation learner rural girls get access to cohesive quality education, social awareness and mental health support
22
adolescent girls are trained community teachers, rendering foundational education and basic fitness training to 692 young first-generation learner children in remote indigenous villages
70
children from childcare centers and rehabilitation homes participating in football, cricket, and taekwondo coaching.- Boosted self-esteem and confidence by providing opportunities to participate in a structured sports program.
- Promoted physical fitness, teamwork, and leadership skills.
- Created a supportive community environment where girls can learn, grow, and aspire towards better opportunities.
- Increased awareness about the importance of sports for holistic development among rural and tribal communities.
*Numbers are from 2024 Tata IPL season.
STORIES OF CHANGE
Isha’s Journey: Rising Through Cricket
Losing her father at just four months old, Isha (name changed) grew up in poverty, with her single mother struggling to meet even basic needs. Education, healthcare, and proper meals were luxuries beyond reach. Her life took a turn when she was placed in a girls home run by Hope Kolkata Foundation, where she finally received formal schooling and care. It was here that her passion for cricket flourished. Enrolling in professional coaching, she developed patience, leadership, and resilience. In 2023, she proudly represented Team India Panthers at the Street Child Cricket World Cup in Chennai, winning two matches. Today, she excels academically and in sports, proving that determination can turn adversity into triumph.
From Adversity to Achievement: Irfan’s cricket Journey of Transformation
Irfan (name changed) grew up in difficult circumstances, often left alone while his mother worked long hours. Without guidance, he drifted towards negative influences, mirroring the risky behaviours of older boys. But his story took a powerful turn at 12 when he found hope through cricket.
Residing at the Boys’ Home run by Hope Kolkata Foundation, Irfan received counselling, education, and structured cricket training, supported by KKR. The discipline of the sport reshaped him—his focus sharpened, his behaviour transformed, and his love for learning flourished. Today, he not only excels in school but also mentors younger children, inspiring them through his journey. Cricket didn’t just give him a sport; it gave him purpose, direction, and a future.
Bablu’s Journey of Healing and Triumph through sports
Nine-year-old Bablu (name changed) endured unimaginable hardships, living with an abusive, addicted father and facing neglect alongside his sister. Deprived of care and protection, he fell into substance abuse, dropped out of school, and suffered from severe malnutrition. His childhood was slipping away—until Hope Kolkata Foundation’s outreach team rescued him and placed him in their Boys’ Home.
Through therapy, detoxification, and dedicated support, Bablu reclaimed his life. Enrolled in academics and sports training supported by KKR, he discovered his passion for cricket and football. Now addiction-free, he has competed in the Upamanyu Mallik Under-17 Cricket Tournament, won school athletics prizes, and is learning computer literacy and spoken English. Bablu’s story is a testament to resilience, proving that with the right support, every child deserves a fresh start and a hopeful future.
Purnima Hembram
Coming from a family of farm laborers, Purnima has been part of Shreeja India for five years, balancing her studies with her passion for football. As captain of the Rajnagar football team, she has grown into a skilled defender and leader, rejecting early marriage and embracing empowerment through sports.
Now, stepping up as a football coach at Shreeja India's Aligarh sub-center, she is inspiring the next generation while supporting her family. With dreams of further training, Purnima continues to prove that football is more than a game, it's a path to freedom and change.
Minati Baski
Living in Babupur, Birbhum, Minati Baski juggles household chores, farm labor, and her passion for football. Despite financial struggles, she remains dedicated to the game, earning recognition as the best goalkeeper in the Shreeja India’s Birbhum Team.
Through KKR’s support for Shreeja India’s 'Football & Beyond' program, Minati has strengthened her mental resilience and emerged as a peer leader. Now an assistant coach alongside Purnima, she is inspiring young players while shaping her own future. Her journey proves that determination and the right support can break barriers and redefine possibilities.
Neha Mardi
Hailing from Keledihi village, Birbhum, Neha Mardi made history as the first in her village to score 94% in her XII boards. Now in her second year of college, she dreams of becoming a teacher while managing the Shreeja Birbhum Football Team.
As a Vidushee mentor, Neha teaches 68 first-generation learners (FGLs), empowering young minds while challenging gender norms. Her dedication recently earned her an award from Umeed Foundation and a scholarship. Neha’s journey proves that education, leadership, and sports can drive meaningful change, shaping a brighter future for entire communities.
