Luta Pela Paz - building confidence, self-esteem and responsible citizens through sport
Luta Pela Paz – (‘Fight for Peace’), based in Rio de Janeiro, began as a boxing centre but has now expanded to include wrestling and capoeira. These sporting activities provide a positive outlet for the frustrations and energies of at-risk children and young people, whilst teaching them not to use violence within their communities. They also develop discipline and concentration, and build their self-esteem.
Beyond this, citizenship classes build the community leaders of the future, with an emphasis on the need for a culture of peace. ABC funding has helped to support computer skills courses and citizenship classes.
At the centre, activities are free for the children and a private gym is available to the wider community at an affordable monthly fee. The proceeds from this help maintain financial stability, whilst also encouraging integration between young people and the rest of the community.
| Region: |
Rio de Janeiro |
| Type of Work: |
Education through martial arts; improving access to the job market; citizenship |
| No of children: |
150 |
| Other beneficiaries: |
Community through gym facilities |
Age range: |
7-25 years, boys and girls |
| Founded: |
2000 |
| In April 2007, the founder of the project, Luke Dowdney, was awarded the Laureus Sport for Good Award. He had recently opened the Sports Centre, which enabled the project to expand its work from boxing evening classes. It now offers education and computer training, citizenship classes with an 80-seat auditorium and cinema, community radio, plus expanded sporting activities throughout the day. |
‘Be disciplined, be humble, be peaceful outside the ring’
Citizenship classes teach children non-violent conflict resolution. Topics such as sex education, family, work, human rights, culture and violence are also discussed.
The team supports each child, ensuring they are doing well in school and checking their family and economic situations. Youth workers conduct family visits and organise meetings with parents and guardians. They also arrange screenings of films and cultural visits around Rio.
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