International Day of Sport for Development and Peace: The Story of WorldCoach Tahani

Tahani. - Foto: KNVB Media

Today, on the International Day of Sport for Development and Peace, we highlight the inspiring journey of Tahani, a young woman from the Nahr el Bared camp in Lebanon, home to many displaced Palestinians. Tahani is part of the KNVB WorldCoaches programme in the country. Her story reflects the positive impact sport can have on young people and communities, especially under challenging circumstances.

WorldCoaches is a social programme based on the KNVB’s extensive international coaching experience and the belief that football, anywhere in the world, can serve as a tool for social development. During the WorldCoaches courses, young people are trained to become football coaches and role models within their own communities, just like Tahani.

Growing up in the camp, her opportunities were limited. Through football and the WorldCoaches programme, she was able to develop her skills, first as a participant and later as a mentor. Over time, she grew into a dedicated leader within her community, using sport to create a safe and peaceful environment.

Tahani plays an active role in ensuring that all girls feel included. Every day, she walks through the camp to gather her players and accompanies them to the pitch, where they can learn, play, and grow together.

In her own words: "The WorldCoaches programme has taught me that failure is not the end of the road, but a new beginning that creates new opportunities."

On this day, she symbolizes the many coaches and volunteers who demonstrate how sport can strengthen communities and contribute to development and peace worldwide. Tahani’s story is one of them, a reminder of the power of football far beyond the lines of the pitch.

Together, we color the world orange.

This programme is implemented in cooperation with the Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs