New Delhi, May 30, 2025: In a proud moment for India’s grassroots sports movement, eight inspiring Young Leaders and two staff members from Mumbai-based NGO, OSCAR Foundation, will travel to Scotland in June 2025. They have been invited by the prestigious University of Edinburgh to take part in a unique cultural and educational exchange programme.
This visit brings together learning, sport and cultural experiences, and will give these young changemakers a global platform to share their stories. The group includes youth from Mumbai, Rajasthan, Karnataka and Daman — all from underserved communities.
The OSCAR Foundation is well-known for its motto “No School, No Football”, using sport and life skills education to empower children growing up in poverty. Many live in small one-room homes without running water or basic facilities, and have little access to mentors. So far, OSCAR has impacted over 15,000 lives and trained more than 1,000 youth as community leaders.
“Before OSCAR, I never imagined leaving my neighbourhood, let alone going to another country. This opportunity is not just for me, but for every child who has ever been told they can’t,” said Pooja Jadhav, OSCAR Young Leader.
At the University of Edinburgh, these young ambassadors will go beyond attending sessions – they will lead discussions and share their experiences of overcoming adversity. They will engage with Scottish students on topics like inequality, youth empowerment, and explore future education and career opportunities.
“This exchange represents everything we believe in: education, inclusion and human connection. We’re proud to welcome these young leaders and excited to build long term ties between our communities,” said Professor Kev Dhaliwal, University of Edinburgh.
In 2026, the exchange will continue when Scottish youth from marginalised communities visit India. This two-way programme aims to build lasting connections and redefine global youth leadership — powered by football, rooted in equality, and fuelled by hope.
“Growing up in a humble community in Mumbai, I saw many give up on their dreams due to a lack of guidance. The real struggle wasn’t ambition, it was belief. OSCAR helped me find both hope and direction again,” said Suyash Agate, OSCAR Young Leader.
x
