Reflecting on the Summit

I can’t quite believe it’s been over a week since the inaugural Leeds Summit on Community Sport for Development and Diplomacy, an event wonderfully described by Simon Lansley in his guest article for Global Leeds (see link below). For me personally, to get the opportunity to re-connect with a whole load of people who I previously worked or collaborated with at parkrun, plus get to know a whole new set of great people, highlighted exactly why I feel so lucky to do what I do.

I also can’t quite believe that having only recently returned from the UAE, we’re back out there on Tuesday next week. This year has seen my first ever experience of the Middle East, and it’s been a wonderful journey so far, with each trip opening up new opportunities and creating new relationships. As well as continuing our work with the Department of Community Development, Hintsa Performance, and Palms Sports (ADX:PALMS), we’re excited to be attending the Middle East Sport Industry Forum, hosted by the brilliant team at Interact.

Then next weekend, Chris and I are off to Saudi Arabia, somewhere neither of us have ever visited before, and so we’re equally excited to explore a new-to-us corner of the world. We’ve already enjoyed a number of positive conversations with Saudi organisations and individuals who are passionate about community sport, and so we’re heading out there full of optimism that we can make a positive contribution to their sport and physical activity landscape.

If you have any connections with people who are passionate about community sport in the Middle East then please do let us know.

This week’s photo is of the incredible Leeds Hyde Park FC, with their inspirational Founder, Adel Chermiti. Adel started delivering his community football sessions over ten years ago, and along with his fellow coaches has helped thousands of young people develop their skills, grow their confidence, and integrate with their community. Practitioners like Adel are incredible community builders and exactly the kind of people Chris and I feel honoured to celebrate, champion, and if we possibly can, support.