The inaugural edition of the Kickstart Foundation’s EmpowerHER program, powered by Australian Aid, was launched with great enthusiasm.
This is a significant move towards promoting women’s football by the Australian High Commission in India.
This collaboration with Kickstart FC in Bengaluru, Karnataka, aims to train and nurture the next generation of Indian football superstars, with aspirations of one day seeing them compete against the Matildas.
Australian Consul General for Karnataka and Telangana Hilary McGeachy said:
“Australia is a strong supporter of women’s football. Andrew, Harriet, and Krithika from our team launched a new partnership @Kickstart_fc – training the next generation of Indian superstars. Look forward to seeing them play against @TheMatildas one day!”
The inagural event was graced by Andrew Collister, Consul at the Australian Consulate-General in Bengaluru, and Harriet White, Vice Consul. Both dignitaries kicked off the event in style, marking the beginning of an exciting week filled with on-field and off-field activities for the young athletes.
The week-long initiative culminated in a closing ceremony led by Luke Coates, Deputy Consul General at the Australian Consulate General in Bengaluru, who celebrated the achievements of the participants and highlighted the success of the program.
The EmpowerHER program is designed to empower and support young women footballers, providing them with the resources and opportunities to excel in the sport.
The Kickstart Foundation recognises that Australia’s support has been instrumental in the success of this unique initiative.
In a statement on LinkedIn Kickstart FC said that it looks forward to continuing this partnership and nurturing more talented athletes through the EmpowerHER program.
“We thank the Australian Consulate General for their immense support to the Kickstart Foundation and look forward to producing more budding athletes through the EmpowerHER program!”
Kickstart aims to educate people of all ages and genders about the deeper values of football and is committed to promoting the sport across various levels, including schools, colleges, and corporate sectors, with the ultimate goal of putting India on the global football map. The club actively participates in local and national leagues in India and operates a youth academy with over 400 children. Additionally, Kickstart supports underprivileged footballers through its foundation. The organisation also manages three FIFA-approved facilities in Bangalore.
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