Welcome to The Buzz with Danu. Today, we dive into a topic that goes beyond entertainment and into the heart of transformation—one that has the power to change lives, build futures, and heal communities.

Imagine children longing for an opportunity to play, to dream, to belong. Imagine young athletes with raw talent but no shoes, no jerseys, and no proper ground to train on. Now, imagine the power of sports—not just as a game, but as a lifeline.

The Every Mind Matters initiative by World Vision Lanka is doing exactly that—using sports as a tool to address mental well-being and social development in the North of Sri Lanka. Through this initiative, children who once had limited opportunities are now finding hope, discipline, and a reason to stay in school.

But the challenges remain. There are still too many obstacles—lack of facilities, limited exposure, and the growing threats of negative influences like drugs and crime. This initiative needs support, and today, we are here to shed light on the reality on the ground, the impact being made, and how you can help.

Joining me today are the people working tirelessly to bring these changes to life. Let’s talk about why this matters and how sports can be more than just a game—it can be a revolution.

1. Why was the Every Mind Matters initiative started, and what is its core mission?

The initiative was born out of a growing concern for the mental well-being of children and youth in the North of Sri Lanka. Many children in these regions struggle with trauma, limited opportunities, and negative external influences. Every Mind Matters uses sports as a powerful tool to provide structure, discipline, and a sense of belonging while improving cognitive and emotional well-being.

2. Can you tell us about the impact of sports on mental health, especially in these communities?

Sports release endorphins, which help reduce anxiety and depression. Beyond science, sports create a safe space where children can form friendships, develop teamwork, and gain confidence. In areas where hopelessness often looms, playing a sport gives children a sense of purpose, motivation, and a reason to stay away from negative influences.

3. You recently visited Kilinochchi and Mullaitivu. What did you witness there?

It was a deeply moving experience. I saw girls playing football barefoot on grounds filled with stones and cow dung—yet their determination never wavered. I met boys with dreams of playing nationally, but they lacked proper jerseys and training equipment. Despite all these struggles, their passion for sports was undeniable. They just need someone to believe in them.

4. How has the initiative already impacted the lives of children?

Since the launch of Every Mind Matters, 410 youth have been reached, and 39 coaches have been trained. School dropout rates have decreased as children spend more time playing and less time exposed to negative influences like harmful adults and drug addiction. We have seen improvements in leadership, teamwork, discipline, and an increased desire to attend school.

5. What are some of the biggest challenges this initiative faces?

The biggest challenges are a lack of infrastructure, proper training for coaches, and access to sports gear. Many children don’t have basic equipment like balls, shoes, or uniforms. Another challenge is keeping them engaged long-term—without proper exposure to tournaments and career pathways in sports, their enthusiasm can fade.

6. What kind of sports opportunities are currently available for children in these regions?

Right now, we focus on cricket, football, volleyball, and tennis. The project has provided essential equipment like cricket bats, softballs, gloves, and volleyball nets. Moving forward, we want to introduce more sports and expand participation.

7. How does Phase 2 of the project differ from Phase 1?

Phase 1 laid the foundation by providing equipment and training coaches. Phase 2 expands into Mullaitivu and strengthens support systems for young athletes. This includes nutritional support for children, specialized training programs, and exposure to competitive tournaments to boost confidence and skill development.

8. How does this initiative address issues like drug addiction and crime?

When children have structured activities like sports, they have less idle time to fall into negative patterns. Sports teach discipline, focus, and goal-setting. It also builds self-worth, which helps children resist peer pressure to engage in harmful activities.

9. What role do coaches and mentors play in this initiative?

Coaches are the backbone of this initiative. They provide not just technical training but also emotional support. A good coach can be a mentor, a role model, and even a second parent. That’s why training and equipping them properly is a key part of this program.

10. How can the community contribute to keeping this initiative alive?

There are many ways to help—donating sports equipment, sponsoring a child’s training, supporting infrastructure projects, or simply spreading awareness. This initiative thrives on collective effort, and even small contributions can make a lasting impact.

11. What do these children dream of when it comes to sports?

Many of them dream of playing at the national or even international level. They want to represent their communities with pride. Some just want a chance to play without restrictions. Their dreams are simple but powerful—opportunity, recognition, and a chance to prove themselves.

12. What are some of the most heartwarming stories you’ve encountered?

One of the most touching moments was watching a young girl who had never owned a pair of sports shoes before. When she finally received her first pair, she was so overwhelmed with joy that she refused to take them off, even at night. It’s moments like these that remind us why this work is important.

13. What are the long-term goals for this initiative?

We want to create a sustainable sports culture in the North, where children have ongoing access to training, facilities, and competitions. We also want to integrate mental health awareness more deeply into the program, ensuring that children not only develop as athletes but also as strong, confident individuals.

14. If people want to donate or support, what’s the best way to do so?

You can visit worldvision.lk to contribute financially or donate sports equipment. You can also partner with us to fund scholarships for young athletes or help set up training camps. Every contribution, no matter how small, plays a role in changing lives.

15. What is the one message you want to leave our audience with?

Sports are more than just a game. For these children, they are a lifeline—a way out, a way forward, and a way to dream. If you have the power to give a child the gift of opportunity, do it. You might just change the course of their life forever.

The Every Mind Matters initiative is proof that change is possible when we come together for a cause. Today, we’ve seen the impact, the challenges, and most importantly, the hope that sports bring to these children.

But this is just the beginning. If we truly believe in equality, opportunity, and the power of dreams, then let’s step up. Whether it’s through donations, partnerships, or simply spreading the word—every effort counts.

Remember, these children aren’t just playing a game. They are fighting for a future. And with your support, they just might win.