【Project Activities】

On October 13, 2023, we joined the Brazilian Camp run by the NPO Escola Opção and held a sports exchange event through kendo, boccia, and ball-based activities.

【Project Background】

Active Life provides sports activities for Japanese and foreign residents in Japan, aiming to contribute to mutual understanding, cooperation, and community-building among people living in local communities through sport.

【Project Objective】

By introducing traditional Japanese kendo and letting children experience it, the event gave Brazilian children an opportunity to encounter Japanese culture. We also conducted sports exchange using English and Japanese with children whose native language is Portuguese, creating a place where children could enjoy sport while being exposed to other languages. Even when words were not fully shared, children, Active Life members, Japanese university-student volunteers, and Brazilian staff were able to understand one another and share emotions through sport.

【Project Area】

Education through Sport

【Methods】

Support for events and competitions

【Outcomes】

Exchanges with people of different cultures, languages, and nationalities through sport provided an opportunity to spark and promote children’s intercultural and mutual understanding. We will continue activities that foster mutual understanding and community-building among people living in local communities through sport.

【Voices from Participants and Partners】

“It was fun to try new games.” “It was my first time seeing kendo—I want to try it again next time.”

【Challenges and Lessons Learned】

To continue the project, we need funds such as honoraria for coaches, so creating income streams is important. This time we were able to achieve it thanks to a grant.

【URL】

ACTIVE LIFE IN SCHOOLS’ SPORTS EVENTS IN JOSO CITY