More Than a Game: A Journey of Confidence, Inclusion, and Belonging
Sometimes, change begins with something small: the courage to speak up, the willingness to participate in a game or sports discipline, or the feeling that you belong. For children, these moments can make a real difference, helping them discover their strengths, build confidence, and connect with others.
For Hamza, these moments came through opportunities to participate and learn in supportive environments by joining Circle in program. His experiences highlight the importance of ensuring every child has the chance to be heard, included, and valued.
Hamza, a seventh-grade student at Kharbetha Bani Hareth Secondary School, faced challenges that affected his confidence and participation in school life. “Hamza experienced speech difficulties and often felt marginalized. Some classmates made fun of him, affecting his confidence and making it harder to participate openly,” said Zaki Abdallah Hussein Injas- his trainer.
When Hamza joined the program, he found opportunities to take part in games and activities alongside his classmates. Gradually, he began participating more actively. His trainer noticed that Hamza joined games more often and became more comfortable sharing ideas and expressing opinions. Each activity gave him another chance to contribute, connect with others, and feel part of the group.
“The change was clear; there has been a very clear change in Hamza. He participates more in the games and sports-based activities, shares his ideas, and expresses his opinion like the rest of his classmates. I am thankful for this program because it helps us include more students and youth in everyday life and in the community,” said Zaki.
Hamza’s experience shows how sport can create opportunities for inclusive learning, connection and participation. Through games, teamwork, and interaction with classmates, Hamza found a safe space to express himself and take an active role in school activities. His journey highlights the importance of environments where differences are met with respect, and every child and youth is encouraged to participate.
The Circle In program is a three-year initiative implemented by Palestine: Sports for Life (PS4L), in partnership with Qatar Foundation (QF), Education Above All (EAA), and IOC Olympism365. The initiative aims to reach 1,250 children across the West Bank and Gaza, particularly girls, children with disabilities, refugees, and displaced children. Through sport, play-based learning, and psychosocial support, Circle In creates safe and inclusive spaces where children can develop essential life skills, build confidence, strengthen resilience, and access alternative learning opportunities. The initiative uses sport as a tool to promote inclusion, well-being, and education, ensuring that every child has the opportunity to participate, learn, and thrive.
“I dream of becoming a professional football player and continuing to develop my skills. This experience has taught me that football is not only about winning games; it is also about discovering who we are and who we can become,” said Hamza.
This story reflects a foundational belief at Palestine: Sports for Life, that sport is much more than physical activity or winning. It can help children build confidence, develop life skills, strengthen relationships, and learn from one another. When children have safe opportunities to participate, they can discover their potential and become part of more inclusive communities.