Football tournament unites Thessaloniki’s refugees and local communities
UK not for profit Aniko, whose mission is to empower displaced people through football, is hosting a Football for All community event in Thessaloniki, Greece, on 18 March.
The landscape of Thessaloniki’s population is changing, with thousands of refugees and migrants settling in the city, having fled war and persecution in their home countries. In response to this, Aniko is using football as a tool to promote social inclusion.
Sunday’s community tournament is the fifth organised in the city. The previous brought together over 300 participants.
“Football has always been a huge part of my life, as a fan and a player, and I know first-hand how a few minutes on the pitch can make a difference long after the whistle is blown. Through Aniko, I’m so happy that we can bring that feeling to hundreds of people at our Football for All events.” said Aniko’s founder, Dan Teuma.
The tournament is being organised in partnership with Refugee Trauma Initiative and Indigo Volunteers and will be held at Topfitness All-star, between 17:00-20:00 UTC+2.
More information about the event, including transcripts in Arabic, English, Farsi, Greek and Urdu, can be found on the Football for All - March facebook page.
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