Solidarity. Vision. Empowerment.
These words capture the shared purpose of our convening yesterday. Representing Serve the City Paris, I had the privilege of leading a delegation to ChangeNOW’s Sport for Change day at the Grand Palais — months in the making and years in the vision.
Twelve members, from six Paris-based associations, with over 20 years of combined experience, support more than 200 beneficiaries each week by helping migrants through sport. Comprised of Founders, managing directors, coaches, volunteers, and players united by one calling: to ensure those migrating to France have a safe space to practice and compete in the sports they love, included and empowered along their integration journey.
From mental health to administrative support to outdoor adventures, we met actors reshaping inclusion in France before having the pivilege to sit down with football legends Jessica Houara-d’Hommeaux and Omar da Fonseca to discuss community, cultural integration, the power of sport and the barriers facing migrants, especially young women athletes.
Thank you to those who dedicate themselves day in, day out to this mission and who made the day possible: Noémie Marchyllie, Isabella Fortier, Omar Lamchahab, Perrine Wullens, Chloe Cassabois, Julie Bouret, Shabnam Salahshoor Max, Hamza, Flora, Moussa and Yousra Abou Rjeily, PhD. And to their associations Kabubu, Équipe Sans Frontières Paris, Sport dans la ville, autremonde, and MELTING PASSES.
After attending this event, it is clear that visibility is currency. Being seen and championed is essential to scaling impact. At the same time, solidarity must be the strategy as real progress comes from collective action, and there is no better moment than now to unite. Women are increasingly taking center stage, with rising viewership signaling momentum, but participation must grow alongside it, with men actively championing the cause. To sustain this energy, it’s crucial to sell a compelling vision. People only commit to journeys where they can see themselves reflected. Ultimately, the goal is not just inclusion but true integration: building cohesive teams, fostering cultural appreciation, and embracing French assimilation while dismantling “otherism” through consistent kindness and meaningful action. ✊🌍
We are actively seeking partners to give their time, talent, and resources. If this resonates, I would love to hear from you, as would any of any of the program directors aforementioned. 🤝
None of this would have been possible without the vision and coordination Tanguy Marzin, the on the ground support of Charlotte Turquois, and the shared vision and access provided by Planet Sporting Club. Thank you all so very much.
See you next year to celebrate all we continue to build in 2026. 🌱 ⚽ ⚡