Sports are a dynamic force that can propel young minds to new heights, nurturing inclusivity and dismantling prejudices with every game-changing moment.
RYTHM Foundation’s pioneering Jaguh RF (RF Champion) programme in Malaysia is structured around this framework, integrating football and education to foster sports excellence and holistic academic and personal development.
In 2021, we embarked on a journey to discover and nurture young talent through this initiative, primarily focusing on teenage boys from disadvantaged backgrounds. However, this year marks a transformative shift as we open our doors to girls, propelling Jaguh RF to unprecedented heights!
Also read: Jaguh RF: Tackling Social Change Through Football
The programme’s revival also signifies a dynamic collaboration with ASA Foundation (ASA), RYTHM’s long-standing partner in various regional projects. ASA has taken the lead in selecting and training 80 students – half of them being girls – from two Kuala Lumpur secondary schools: SMK Bangsar and SMK Vivekananda.
Girls Shine in Selections
ASA, a non-profit organisation that combines education with the power of sports to enhance learning and drive social impact, is the ideal partner for RYTHM in our joint mission of fostering positive change and youth development.
Its Founder, Lee Hawkins, is enthused about the latest collaboration: “We’ve been working with RYTHM for seven years and are excited to be involved in Jaguh RF. This is our first football-based education development programme for boys and girls.”
development programme for boys and girls.
Lee was especially impressed by the commitment and talent demonstrated by the teen girls during the selections and trials.
“We engaged many girls in the activities we lined up to find suitable participants. It’s fantastic and inspiring to see the youngsters, especially the girls, giving their all on the field,” he added.
Eager to Excel
Driven by ambition and determination, the participants expressed their enthusiasm for the programme and belief in its potential to elevate their skills and achievements.
“I’m not outstanding in academics. So, this might be my opportunity to showcase my talents in sports,” said 13-year-old Taania Shri Pathmanathan, one of the girls from SMK Vivekananda. “Although I may not be exceptionally skilled (in football), I am determined to give my best.”
“I’m so happy to be selected for the Jaguh RF programme,” 13-year-old Muhammad Afiff Amzar Mohd Irwan said. “This is my chance to level up my skills and pave the way toward becoming a successful football player.”
Santosh Suresh is just as determined to excel in the initiative and his studies, setting a personal goal of making his family proud.
“I believe I can excel with the Jaguh RF programme,” Santosh said. “I aim to make my parents proud and give my best to the programme.”
As Jaguh RF embarks on a new chapter characterised by inclusivity, empowerment, and the determination of young talents to strive for excellence, the programme promises to be a remarkable journey of growth in sports, studies, and personal development for these promising youths.