Latest news with #PlayforUkraine


News18
3 days ago
- Sport
- News18
How Sports Commitment to Giving Back is Transforming Lives
Agency: Last Updated: July 28, 2025, 18:00 IST Representational image (Image: News18) The world of sports has long been a powerful platform for inspiring change, and its commitment to giving back is transforming lives in profound ways. Athletes, teams, and organizations are leveraging their influence to address social issues, support underserved communities, and promote inclusivity. From grassroots initiatives to global campaigns, sports entities are funding scholarships, building community centers, and providing mentorship programs for youth. For instance, professional athletes often establish foundations to support education and health programs, offering opportunities to those who might otherwise be overlooked. These efforts not only provide tangible resources but also inspire hope, showing individuals that their dreams are achievable with the right support. Beyond material contributions, the sports community's dedication to giving back fosters a culture of empathy and unity. Events like charity matches, fundraising marathons, and community outreach programs bring people together, breaking down barriers and building stronger, more connected communities. Programs targeting mental health awareness, diversity, and inclusion are gaining traction, encouraging athletes to use their platforms to advocate for change. By engaging with local schools, hospitals, and nonprofit organizations, sports figures and teams create ripple effects that extend far beyond the playing field. This commitment to social responsibility is not just transforming individual lives but also redefining the role of sports as a catalyst for positive societal impact. Jaaikaran Chanana: Championing Change Through Football In a world where self-interest often takes precedence, Jaaikaran Chanana stands out as a young humanitarian whose commitment to giving back is transforming lives. Through his innovative initiative, Play for Ukraine, he harnesses the universal language of football to bring hope, joy, and resilience to children in refugee camps across Ukraine, Poland, and Hungary. A Vision Born from Passion Jaaikaran's journey began in 2022, driven by his love for football—the world's most beloved sport. Recognizing its power to connect people across cultures and borders, he transformed his passion into a philanthropic movement. Play for Ukraine is more than a charitable project; it's a beacon of hope for displaced children, using sport as a vehicle for social change. Bringing Joy to Refugee Camps At the heart of Play for Ukraine is a simple yet profound mission: to spread happiness through football. By distributing football kits in refugee camps, Jaaikaran's initiative brings moments of joy to children facing unimaginable challenges. But the impact goes beyond the pitch. The program fosters community, promotes education, and builds resilience, offering a sense of normalcy to young lives disrupted by conflict. Through his work, Jaaikaran has shown that sports can be a powerful tool for healing. His efforts provide not just equipment but also a renewed sense of hope and solidarity, uplifting entire communities in distress. A Broader Mission The ultimate goal of Play for Ukraine is to empower children to achieve their dreams through sports and education. By partnering with NGOs, Jaaikaran has amplified the initiative's reach, raising awareness about the conditions in refugee camps and earning international recognition. His work demonstrates how one person's vision can inspire collective action and drive meaningful change. Swipe Left For Next Video View all A Legacy of Impact Jaaikaran Chanana's story is a testament to the power of dedication, proving that age is no barrier to making a difference. Through Play for Ukraine, he has shown that a single individual's passion can spark a movement, bringing light to those in need and reminding us all of the transformative potential of giving back. (Disclaimer: The above press release comes to you under an arrangement with NRDPL and PTI takes no editorial responsibility for the same.). PTI PWR (This story has not been edited by News18 staff and is published from a syndicated news agency feed - PTI) view comments Disclaimer: Comments reflect users' views, not News18's. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.

The Wire
3 days ago
- Sport
- The Wire
How Sports Commitment to Giving Back is Transforming Lives
The world of sports has long been a powerful platform for inspiring change, and its commitment to giving back is transforming lives in profound ways. Athletes, teams, and organizations are leveraging their influence to address social issues, support underserved communities, and promote inclusivity. From grassroots initiatives to global campaigns, sports entities are funding scholarships, building community centers, and providing mentorship programs for youth. For instance, professional athletes often establish foundations to support education and health programs, offering opportunities to those who might otherwise be overlooked. These efforts not only provide tangible resources but also inspire hope, showing individuals that their dreams are achievable with the right support. Beyond material contributions, the sports community's dedication to giving back fosters a culture of empathy and unity. Events like charity matches, fundraising marathons, and community outreach programs bring people together, breaking down barriers and building stronger, more connected communities. Programs targeting mental health awareness, diversity, and inclusion are gaining traction, encouraging athletes to use their platforms to advocate for change. By engaging with local schools, hospitals, and nonprofit organizations, sports figures and teams create ripple effects that extend far beyond the playing field. This commitment to social responsibility is not just transforming individual lives but also redefining the role of sports as a catalyst for positive societal impact. Jaaikaran Chanana: Championing Change Through Football In a world where self-interest often takes precedence, Jaaikaran Chanana stands out as a young humanitarian whose commitment to giving back is transforming lives. Through his innovative initiative, Play for Ukraine, he harnesses the universal language of football to bring hope, joy, and resilience to children in refugee camps across Ukraine, Poland, and Hungary. A Vision Born from Passion Jaaikaran's journey began in 2022, driven by his love for football—the world's most beloved sport. Recognizing its power to connect people across cultures and borders, he transformed his passion into a philanthropic movement. Play for Ukraine is more than a charitable project; it's a beacon of hope for displaced children, using sport as a vehicle for social change. Bringing Joy to Refugee Camps At the heart of Play for Ukraine is a simple yet profound mission: to spread happiness through football. By distributing football kits in refugee camps, Jaaikaran's initiative brings moments of joy to children facing unimaginable challenges. But the impact goes beyond the pitch. The program fosters community, promotes education, and builds resilience, offering a sense of normalcy to young lives disrupted by conflict. Through his work, Jaaikaran has shown that sports can be a powerful tool for healing. His efforts provide not just equipment but also a renewed sense of hope and solidarity, uplifting entire communities in distress. A Broader Mission The ultimate goal of Play for Ukraine is to empower children to achieve their dreams through sports and education. By partnering with NGOs, Jaaikaran has amplified the initiative's reach, raising awareness about the conditions in refugee camps and earning international recognition. His work demonstrates how one person's vision can inspire collective action and drive meaningful change. A Legacy of Impact Jaaikaran Chanana's story is a testament to the power of dedication, proving that age is no barrier to making a difference. Through Play for Ukraine, he has shown that a single individual's passion can spark a movement, bringing light to those in need and reminding us all of the transformative potential of giving back. (Disclaimer: The above press release comes to you under an arrangement with NRDPL and PTI takes no editorial responsibility for the same.). PTI PWR This is an auto-published feed from PTI with no editorial input from The Wire.
Yahoo
24-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
Musicians gather to raise funds for Ukraine supplies
Musicians have gathered for a fundraising event to support the people of Ukraine. The fourth Play for Ukraine event since the war with Russia began in 2022 was being held at the Face Bar in Reading, Berkshire, on Saturday. All donations from the event will be used to pay for a vehicle loaded with essential supplies, which will be sent to the frontline. Organiser and drummer, Pete Laschok, whose father was Ukrainian, said it was not a political event and was "just about helping people". "I just want to help in some way, in a humanitarian sense," Mr Laschok said, explaining he was so "upset" and "emotional" when he saw the war unfold. "Bombs are still flying, people are getting killed," he said. He said he did not feel hopeful that peace would be achieved soon, adding that he believed the people of Ukraine would always need some kind of help. Five bands volunteered to perform at this year's event - Pink Diamond Revue, Natural Right, Hoopy Frood, Kryla and He Fired First. .Mr Laschok said the vehicle they managed to fundraise for last year was still in operation in Ukraine. He told the BBC he hoped his efforts would have made his late father proud but said it was "good that he's not here to see it because he would be devastated by it". Stefan Bomok is from the Reading Branch of the Association of Ukrainians in Great Britain, which will receive the donations from the fundraiser and ensure the vehicle gets to Ukraine. He said the organisation had sent five 4x4 vehicles from Reading so far. "The [new] vehicle will be ferrying back and forwards, military stuff and medical aide to the frontline and wounded back to hospitals," he said. Mr Bomok, whose late father was Ukrainian, said the first time his family visited the country was just before it achieved independence. He said: "We saw the flags being raised outside the white building in Kyiv and I felt more at home going back to Ukraine, even though I was never born there, than in England. "What my father gave me was culturally very strong." You can follow BBC Berkshire on Facebook, X (Twitter), or Instagram. Hectic two weeks leaves Russia confident - and peace in Ukraine feeling no closer Thirteen killed in wave of Russian attacks across Ukraine Zelensky accuses Russia of 'buying time' to stall truce talks Association of Ukrainians in Great Britain
Yahoo
24-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
Musicians gather to raise funds for Ukraine supplies
Musicians have gathered for a fundraising event to support the people of Ukraine. The fourth Play for Ukraine event since the war with Russia began in 2022 was being held at the Face Bar in Reading, Berkshire, on Saturday. All donations from the event will be used to pay for a vehicle loaded with essential supplies, which will be sent to the frontline. Organiser and drummer, Pete Laschok, whose father was Ukrainian, said it was not a political event and was "just about helping people". "I just want to help in some way, in a humanitarian sense," Mr Laschok said, explaining he was so "upset" and "emotional" when he saw the war unfold. "Bombs are still flying, people are getting killed," he said. He said he did not feel hopeful that peace would be achieved soon, adding that he believed the people of Ukraine would always need some kind of help. Five bands volunteered to perform at this year's event - Pink Diamond Revue, Natural Right, Hoopy Frood, Kryla and He Fired First. .Mr Laschok said the vehicle they managed to fundraise for last year was still in operation in Ukraine. He told the BBC he hoped his efforts would have made his late father proud but said it was "good that he's not here to see it because he would be devastated by it". Stefan Bomok is from the Reading Branch of the Association of Ukrainians in Great Britain, which will receive the donations from the fundraiser and ensure the vehicle gets to Ukraine. He said the organisation had sent five 4x4 vehicles from Reading so far. "The [new] vehicle will be ferrying back and forwards, military stuff and medical aide to the frontline and wounded back to hospitals," he said. Mr Bomok, whose late father was Ukrainian, said the first time his family visited the country was just before it achieved independence. He said: "We saw the flags being raised outside the white building in Kyiv and I felt more at home going back to Ukraine, even though I was never born there, than in England. "What my father gave me was culturally very strong." You can follow BBC Berkshire on Facebook, X (Twitter), or Instagram. Hectic two weeks leaves Russia confident - and peace in Ukraine feeling no closer Thirteen killed in wave of Russian attacks across Ukraine Zelensky accuses Russia of 'buying time' to stall truce talks Association of Ukrainians in Great Britain