Project Overview

The “Learn, Play & Thrive Collective” program, launched in May 2022 by the Lacoste Foundation with the support of Sport Impact, aims to strengthen education, social inclusion, and professional integration for young people in Morocco through an educational approach centered on tennis. Developed in collaboration with TIBU Africa and the Safari Group, the program supports children and youth from underserved neighborhoods in Casablanca. During its first year, the program successfully reached over 100 children and young people, contributing to their academic progress, personal development, and transition toward economic opportunities.

Project Objectives

• Enhance access to education and socio-emotional development through tennis
• Strengthen core life skills: teamwork, motivation, concentration, and respect
• Improve academic outcomes and cognitive capacities.Support the professional integration of NEET youth
• Establish a scalable and sustainable sport-for-development model.

Program Components

Education Through Tennis

Over 100 educational tennis sessions delivered. 90 children aged 7–13 from disadvantaged neighborhoods engaged. Collaboration with 4 public primary schools in Casablanca. Demonstrated progress in school performance, social behavior, concentration, self-confidence—especially among girls—and overall tennis abilities.

NEET Youth Employability Pathway

Through a partnership with the Safari Group, the program offered a structured employability pathway to 10 Moroccan youth under 25 in NEET situations, including theoretical training, practical workshops, and professional internships. 80% of participants secured employment or launched entrepreneurial activities.

Institutional Collaboration

The initiative is built on a tripartite collaboration involving the Lacoste Foundation, TIBU Africa, and the Safari Group, supported by Sport Impact for operational coordination and impact monitoring.

Target Beneficiaries

• Children aged 7–13 from underserved areas of Casablanca
• Youth experiencing academic or social vulnerability
• NEET youth seeking pathways to training or employmentIndirect beneficiaries: families, schools, and local communities.

Key Results & Impact

• 90 children participated in structured educational tennis activities
• Over 100 sessions conducted with measurable academic and behavioral improvements
• Enhanced life skills: confidence, teamwork, focus, emotional regulation
• 10 NEET youth trained and supported through employability training
• 80% transitioned into employment or entrepreneurshipStrong community engagement through sports events
• Program renewed for an additional year based on results.