The spirit of unity, sportsmanship, and community upliftment was on full display as the Al Ansaar Foundation, Al Ansaar Radio, and the Al Ansaar Event Team, in collaboration with South African Police Service (SAPS), successfully hosted a vibrant soccer tournament for local schools in and around Durban. The exciting event took place at the Siripat Grounds in Reservoir Hills.
Participating schools included Reservoir Hills Secondary School, AD Lazarus Secondary School, Burnwood Secondary School, Centenary Secondary School, Overport Secondary School, Bechet High School, Sparks Estate Secondary School, and Siripat Lions Football Club. The tournament brought together learners, educators, community leaders, and supporters for a morning filled with healthy competition, camaraderie, and positive engagement.
Adding to the excitement of the day, the Al Ansaar Radio team broadcasted live from the grounds. Presenter Razia Rangrage hosted The Urban Women Show live from the venue, interacting with attendees and capturing the vibrant atmosphere of the event. Presenter Nichal Sarawan from The Breakfast Rush Show, Sumaya Khan of Youth Frequency and School Matters showed their support for this meaningful initiative aimed at empowering the youth through sport and community involvement.
The event was further honoured by the presence of respected management members from the Al Ansaar Foundation, Al Ansaar Events, and Al Ansaar Radio, including Foundation & Events Director Irfan Bux, Radio Manager Faizal MJ Suleman, and CEO Yunus Sacoor, all of whom attended to show their support for this impactful community project.
The Al Ansaar Outreach Team ensured that all players were well taken care of by serving freshly prepared hotdogs, water, and cooldrinks throughout the morning. The atmosphere was one of joy, teamwork, and mutual respect as learners from different schools came together in the true spirit of sport.
Before the trophy handover ceremony, spectators were treated to one final exciting match between the Al Ansaar team and the SAPS team, bringing the event to a thrilling and entertaining close.
A special word of appreciation goes to Sergeant Jili of South African Police Service and Lifeline for their continued collaboration and dedication towards important community-driven initiatives such as this.
Hosted for the third time by the Al Ansaar Outreach Team and SAPS, the main objective of the soccer tournament was to spread a powerful message to the youth and wider community: say no to drugs, say no to violence, say no to bullying, and say no to racism. Through initiatives like these, meaningful conversations are created, positive values are encouraged, and safer, stronger communities are built.
