Kenya. Football Festival for school children from the Kakuma refugee camps and the Kalobeyei Integrated Settlement. © UNHCR/Samuel Otieno
OTTAWA – It’s one year until Canada co-hosts the 2026 FIFA World Cup. While it seems far away, we’re excited to celebrate a game that’s truly global.
In refugee settlements across the world, it’s common to see kids kicking a ball around or debating their favourite players. Coming to Canada, the sport offers newcomers more than exercise or excitement, it promotes well-being and a fun way to be part of their new community.
Looking ahead to the World Cup, at UNHCR Canada we would like to take advantage of this special moment. We want to celebrate athletes, coaches and volunteers who may be refugees or support refugees to participate in the beautiful game across Canada.
To do this, we need your help.
This summer, we’ll be reaching out across Canada to gather stories about inspiring individuals. These could include:
- A refugee youth who found connection or healing through soccer
- A star refugee athlete
- A coach or volunteer who gives back to the community or makes sure refugees feel included
- A soccer team or program with a special focus on refugees
These stories could come from a variety of places, including a youth program, community league, school, college or university.
We would like to highlight these stories on our website and social media. As this campaign moves forward, we’ll be looking for additional exciting ways to celebrate these individuals or teams.
If you know someone who deserves to be featured, please let us know by contacting Zeba Tasci, tasci@unhcr.org.
As nations from around the globe come to Canada as part of the World Cup, let’s use the sport to truly build connection with everyone who holds it dear.
For more information on this topic, please contact:
Zeba Tasci, tasci@unhcr.org
Nazli Altayli Keskin, keskinn@unhcr.org
