Doris Lopez, a Venezuelan mother residing in Valledupar, He never imagined that a sports program could change the life of his oldest son, Wilker. At age 5, he suffered a seizure that affected his social and emotional development. Doctors predicted a limited future. However the Come and Play Program It became a safe place, surrounded by support for Walker’s life.
Come and Play, is the program that has not only transformed Wilker’s life, in 2023 it impacted the lives of more than 1,320 boys, girls, adolescents and their families in a vulnerable situation in the departments of Atlántico, La Guajira and Cesar in Colombia.
It is a joint initiative of United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), Save the Children and Fútbol Con Corazón, uses soccer as a tool to promote social inclusion, socio-emotional development and peace-building in refugees, Venezuelan migrants, returned Colombians, host communities and binational indigenous population.
World Refugee Day: the inspiring story of Wilker, a young soccer talent in Valledupar
Before the program, Wilker was an introverted child with difficulty communicating. The coaches, Come and Play activities, and his teammates were key to Wilker experiencing positive changes. Allowing you to strengthen your cognitive skills through the program (autonomy, decision making, problem solving) social (empathy, teamwork, assertive communication) and emotional (emotion management, self-knowledge and self-esteem) being fundamental to Wilker’s growth.
“His self-esteem was in tatters, he didn’t communicate with anyone, he was better off in solitude,” says Doris López, Wilker’s mother. “I have seen a lot of change in my 15-year-old boy because he has tried to socialize with others his age, well, rather, Already in the hole where he was, in the thing where he was, the doctors said he couldn’t get out of there through treatment, they told me no, but I had faith in God.”
Wilker’s story is a vivid example of the positive impact that the Come and Play Program has. Through regular training, tournaments, workshops and recreational activities, The program not only teaches soccer skills, but also values such as teamwork, discipline, respect and healthy coexistence. In addition, families are involved in the program activities, providing them with support and tools to strengthen family ties and promote positive parenting.
You can also read: Looking to volunteer to restore moors from fires? MinAmbiente warned why it is not the time to do so
World Day of Refugees and Displaced Persons, which is commemorated on June 20, we call on all sectors of society to join the cause of Come and Play. Together we can promote spaces of inclusion and social cohesion, using play and dialogue, fundamental tools to create and strengthen bonds of teamwork and a sense of belonging, breaking down any borders and divisions to together reduce xenophobia.
