“The game of basketball has been everything to me. My place of refuge, place I’ve always gone where I needed comfort and peace. It’s been the site of intense pain and the most intense feelings of joy and satisfaction. It’s a relationship that has evolved over time, given me the greatest respect and love for the game.”—Michael Jordan
Sports unite people, transcend linguistic and cultural differences, and act as a common language that people from all backgrounds can understand. Sports also teach leadership, teamwork, and communication skills that help young people succeed in all areas of their lives.
U.S. Consul General Jennifer Davis has a new challenge for young people: Artık Top Sende! ( Your Turn to Play). She is looking for 50 enthusiastic young people ages 10-18 years in Turkey to be Sports Ambassadors for their communities. Young Sports Ambassadors will work with their community—teachers, families, and peers—to develop a sports project to benefit their communities. Sports Ambassadors will submit their proposals to the U.S. Consulate General Istanbul for consideration and three proposals will be selected to receive $5,000 to realize the community sports project.
Consul General Davis will be visiting schools and other locations throughout the year. Check the U.S. Consulate General Istanbul’s Facebook page to follow the campaign.
If your school or community is interested in joining this campaign, please write to Selda Şerifsoy at Istanbulpas@state.gov or call +90-212-335-9061.
Let the game begin!