Hold My Hand Charity (Ethiopia) and Future Stars Academy (Tanzania) win the Donosti Cup Munduan Grants.
The winners will participate free of charge in the next edition of the Donosti Cup, to be held from July 7 to 13, 2025.
The Donosti Cup has announced the winning projects of the “Donosti Cup Munduan 2025” Grants. The jury, composed of prominent figures from the world of sports and cooperation, such as Álex Remiro, Nahikari García, Edurne Pasaban, Ander Izagirre, and Iñigo Olaizola, evaluated the six finalist projects and selected the two winning ones. According to the jury spokesperson, Iñigo Olaizola: "The level of the projects was very high, making the final decision very difficult. We want to thank all of them for applying and congratulate them on the amazing work they are doing in their communities. These Grants are intended to be a long-term initiative, and we are excited to continue supporting organizations that use sports, especially football, to improve the quality of life for many boys and girls living in difficult situations."
In the women’s category, the voting was particularly tight: Hold My Hand Charity from Ethiopia received 11 points, narrowly surpassing Club Deportivo Calé from Murcia, while the third place went to Education for All from Kenya. Future Stars Academy triumphed more clearly in the male category, earning 13 points, ahead of Live Active from Angola with 9 points, and Academia Deporvida from Paraguay with 8.
Hold My Hand Charity (Ethiopia) focuses on vulnerable children, using football as a tool to promote education, leadership, and social integration. They also provide safe shelter and foster values like discipline and teamwork. Their programs have significantly reduced the number of homeless children and increased school attendance by 30% among their beneficiaries. Mikiyas, a Hold My Hand Charity representative, says: "We believe that football is not just a sport, but a powerful tool for social transformation. Our programs have brought hope, discipline, and purpose to children who have faced extreme adversity. Participating in the Donosti Cup will allow them to dream beyond their current circumstances."
Future Stars Academy (Tanzania) is recognized for its inclusive and transformative approach in Tanzania. The organization combines football with educational and leadership programs, promoting gender equity and the inclusion of children with disabilities. Their impact has benefited thousands of young people, and they aim to continue inspiring change through sport. Alfred, founder and CEO of FSA, states: "For most of our participants, from disadvantaged backgrounds, the opportunity to travel and compete in Spain will be life-changing. It will not only transform their lives but also create a lasting impact in our community."
