In conflict/post-conflict areas, sport can also be used to motivate groups of supporters by role modelling. Girls and women can benefit from the encouragement and leadership of a coach or a teammate, who can serve as an important role model and trusted confidante for them as they manoeuvre the difficult emotions associated with GBV. Positive role models can motivate and inspire the other participants to push themselves for the good of the team. Successful role models are confident and usually are good communicators. This characteristic is critical when playing sport with a girl or woman who may have experienced GBV but is unable to express herself.
Programmatic Tip
An AKWOS-sponsored programme in Save, Rwanda, formed a committee. Eight of the girls and women from the team make up this core group and act as confidants and role models for the other participants. They help their teammates overcome problems and issues that they may be facing at home or in the community. It may be worth observing the girls and women in your programme in the hope of forming a committee. The benefits are far-reaching as it allows introverted individuals to identify and build trust with a core group within the programme.