IGB Commercial REIT (IGBCR) and the Badminton World Federation (BWF) ignited a passion for badminton and fostered a sense of community through a joint Development CSR Programme for underprivileged children.
The event took place on 22 June 2024 at IGB International School ahead of World Badminton Day celebrations on 5 July. 70 underprivileged children from Ti-Ratana and Yayasan Sunbeams Home participated in the event. The collaborative effort brought together 18 enthusiastic IGBCR volunteers, guided by 10 certified BWF Shuttle Time Teachers and Coaches.
“We are honoured to collaborate with BWF for this meaningful CSR Development programme. It is a great initiative to empower underprivileged children to learn new skills, have fun and maybe discovera lifelong passion. Witnessing our staff volunteering together and engaging with the children embodies IGBCR’s commitment to serving the community and reinforces the positive impact we can have together,” expressed Irene Sin, Joint Deputy CEO, IGB Commercial REIT.
Six interactive stations were set up for children from six to 18 years old to learn and experience the fun of badminton. The lesson covered key skills like grips, net drills, shuttlecock control and movement skills.
“Our goal is to make badminton an inclusive sport, and this project is totally in line with the BWF’s vision of ‘giving every child a chance to play badminton for life’. . This collaboration with IGBCR has been truly rewarding seeing a large number of children actively participating and having fun together through the curated interactive lessons,” Ian Wright, BWF Director of Development stated.
“This coaching clinic is not just about teaching racket skills and net play. It is also about creating a safe and encouraging space where children of all ages and abilities can successfully develop badminton skills and a chance to develop physical and social skills,” he emphasised.
The administrator who oversees Ti-Ratana Welfare Society, expressed her joy in witnessing the Coaching Clinic, stating. “The children loved it! It is also heartwarming to see passionate individuals and eager young minds coming together, enjoying the badminton lessons while presenting the opportunity for the children to mingle with peers from other backgrounds.”
Walter Gan, an 11-year-old from Sunbeams Home, echoed the sentiment with a radiant smile. “I had so much fun! I can’t wait to practise with my friends. Thank you for giving us this opportunity.”
The commitment to social responsibility goes beyond the initial CSR development programme for the participating homes. The Badminton World Federation has sponsored badminton school kits for the homes, respectively.
Each kit includes 20 rackets, six tubes of half-dozen nylon shuttles, two badminton nets, and a badminton bag. This equipment will ensure badminton can continue to be enjoyed by the children during future home visits by IGBCR volunteers and BWF Shuttle Time Teachers. By providing each home with its own equipment set, we’re fostering a long-term impact and encouraging the children to keep playing badminton independently.
Hosting this badminton coaching clinic demonstrates IGBCR and BWF’s commitment to fostering a positive community as reflected in BWF’s vision of ‘giving every child the chance to play for life.’
