Published: 31 January, 2013
by STEVE BARNETT

A TEAM of young sports leaders have returned home from a life-changing trip to South Africa “as men and mentors to be proud of” after witnessing the true meaning of being disadvantaged.

The heartrending journey saw volunteers based at Coram’s Fields travel to Zambia, where they used rugby and other sports to try to boost the lives of thousands of disadvantaged children.

The team also taught English and maths, painted several schools and an orphanage, planted and cultivated a fruit and vegetable patch, raised money for deprived communities and donated clothes, sports equipment and kits.

Overall the Coram’s Fields Zambia Charity Project raised just over £6,000 in 18 months.

Head of Youth and Sports at Coram’s Fields, Naz Deen, said it was an emotional and rewarding trip for everyone involved.

“There’s only so much we could do in 16 days but I hope we put smiles on the faces of people who literally have nothing,” he said. “During our time there we all laughed, cried and met people we will never forget.

“The young leaders have benefited greatly from the experience. Some of them had been involved in anti-social behaviour in the past and others were not doing anything positive with their lives, but now that’s all changed.

“They’ve become a group of young men and I am very proud of them. They have grown into true mentors for other young people in London and will carry on being great sports leaders within their communities.”