Refugees, asylum seekers, and ethnic minority communities celebrated each other's cultures during the Sportsmania Festival in Belfast.
Sportsmania Festival, now in its third year, is organised by Multi-Ethnic Sports and Culture NI (MSCNI). The festival took place on Saturday 27 July 2024 to coincide with the final of the third senior Super League.
Councillor Lilian Seenoi-Barr, Mayor of Derry and Strabane District Council and Northern Ireland's first black female mayor, was in attendance to show her support: "Sportsmania is a novel concept that aims to reach out to all groups through sports.
“Not only does it promote physical activity and excellent health, but it also encourages young people to integrate and come together to enjoy sports and camaraderie. It is an excellent example of inclusivity, recognising our varied cultures, and everyone's shared love and admiration for sports."
MSCNI founded the league three years ago for males aged 18 to 45 to form friendships in the local community. Jahswill Emmanuel BEM, the charity's founder and chair, said, "Our organisation is a leader in promoting inclusion and diversity in sports across Northern Ireland's vibrant communities.
“We are dedicated to creating a secure and inviting environment in which everyone, regardless of age, gender, or cultural background, can participate. It not only helps adults to keep active and improve their mental health through frequent matches, but it also develops a feeling of community by bringing them together with people from various backgrounds.”
Building on the success of the senior Super League, the charity secured a grant from the NI Housing Executive to launch a Junior Super League, aimed at 16–21-year-olds. Already 1,000 young people from various cultures have signed on to participate.
The League has also collaborated with South Belfast Alternatives to provide training on topics such as social media usage, internet safety, and leadership skills.
Jahswill believes his organisation can help minority ethic groups integrate better and reach their full potential in Northern Ireland. He said:
“Since 2016, we have supported and developed ethnic minority groups and individuals in sports and cultural activities.
“Our goal is not to be the largest sport platform, but to set a good example for others to follow. We strive to be the most impactful, inclusive, and leading organisation that helps marginalised children, youths, and older ethnic minority groups reach their full potential.”
Further Info
Find out more about by Multi-Ethnic Sports and Culture NI (MSCNI).