Using my experience in D.C. to support youth in my home country of Tunisia

by Safe Bichiou

Basketball player, ESCB

Coach, Académie Stade Nabeulien Basketball

Coming to America was always a dream I never thought would become a reality, but when it did, it changed my perspective on life.

Last summer, I was selected to participate in the Sports Diplomacy “Sports for Tunisia” program in Washington, D.C. It was funded by the U.S. Department of State and implemented by World Learning and The Basketball Embassy.

This exchange program focused on using sports, particularly basketball, as a tool to combat poverty, drug abuse and crime while promoting social integration as a way to advance skills related to economic and entrepreneurial development among young people.

During our time in D.C, the other 11 participants and I attended different conferences with professional athletes, coaches, non-government organization (NGO) workers and other experts in the sports industry. As a young basketball player and coach, it was a good opportunity to exchange ideas and strategies for using sports as a tool for positive social change.

We participated in different workshops using sports to teach us teamwork, time management, leadership and communication skills. Thanks to this variety of activities,  I could express myself, speak in public without stress and talk about my future plans for my home country to engage youth in sports and make them aware of their own abilities to improve their lives.

We also had the chance to visit the historical landmarks of D.C., including different arenas around the city, which allowed me to gain a deep understanding of the American society and culture. Because of this experience, I feel more responsible for my community to effect positive social change and to help young people succeed in all areas of their lives.

Now, I’m challenging myself to achieve my dreams and transform my country to a better place to live. Through my exposure to American culture and people, I can cultivate strong relationships to resolve Tunisia’s challenges through sports.

The Department of State Sport Diplomacy Division asked each participant to prepare an action plan for a follow-on project after the conclusion of the program. This initiative made me think about my primary objective for my individual project and how can I make it true.