My

Story

Walter

My name is Walter, and I am a 51-year-old community leader and social worker from the province of Carchi, in northern Ecuador, near the Colombian border. For over 20 years, I have supported vulnerable children, adolescents, and families in rural areas.

In my daily work, I encounter significant challenges. A significant number of the children and teenagers I support are facing violence and are living on the street. Many of them are at risk of recruitment by armed groups or street gangs. Others face struggles with drug abuse or lack access to basic rights, such as education and an identity. In rural areas, the situation is often even more critical, especially with the ongoing illegal mining activities. Many families remain unregistered, making the situation even more difficult.

One of the most impactful aspects of sports in my community is its ability to foster a sense of identity and belonging. It is also a way to engage parents and community leaders, creating a sustainable network of support. With the tools I’ve gained from the Young Coach education, I train my team of volunteers and facilitators to replicate these methodologies, ensuring that the knowledge spreads in our region.

Through the Football Club Social Alliance’s programme, I have learned new methodologies and tools to use within my community. Beyond the game itself, sports activities help us identify children in need. We then work with the civil registry and local authorities to ensure these children can access education and other essential services.

Coaching is not just about teaching skills or organizing activities, it’s a way of empowering communities in the long term. By integrating education and sports, I’ve seen tangible results. Children who once faced different risks and dangers are now pursuing their education and some are even attending university. This year alone, eight young people from our programme have graduated as professionals, including refugees such as an indigenous Awá woman from Colombia who overcame immense challenges to become a public administrator here in Ecuador.

For me, being a community leader is about continuous learning and growth. The world changes rapidly, and so do the challenges faced by our youth. I strive to stay informed, adapting to new realities and technologies to better serve my community. Looking ahead, I want to grow, together with the children and people I work with.