Colombia is coming to an end of more than 50 years of civil war, which has created over four million internally-displaced people and high levels of political and drug-related violence. The country has one of the highest levels of inequality in the world, especially if you are a girl.
The Colombianitos programme works in state schools across the capital Bogota, using football and rugby to bridge gender gaps by including both boys and girls. The programme aims to prevent early consumption of alcohol among young people, create young leaders and empower women and girls to help them find their first formal job.
By implementing this programme within schools and involving teachers in the delivery, Colombianitos is tackling sexism in society, fighting gender discrimination and promoting girls’ rights and responsibilities. Today Colombianitos is helping more than 26,500 children and young people in 147 communities of the country.