Rise Above Development (RAD) is currently hosting a youth World Cup tournament in Lavender Hill, providing children from the local community and Parkwood with a structured sporting programme during the winter school holidays. The event, which began on Monday, 29 June 2026, is scheduled to conclude on Friday, 10 July 2026, with all matches taking place on the field in Blode Street.
Community Safety And Youth Empowerment
According to General Manager Adele Campbell, the primary objective of the initiative is to offer local children a constructive outlet away from the risks associated with the streets. The tournament aims to mitigate the influence of gang activity in the area by engaging youth in organised physical recreation throughout the holiday break.
RAD General Manager Adele Campbell believes that hosting a world cup for the kids will keep them off the streets and out of the reach of the many gangs operating in the area.
Addressing Socio-Economic Challenges Through Sport
Lavender Hill is a community frequently impacted by significant socio-economic challenges and violence, making safe spaces for children particularly vital. RAD operates as a local youth-focused organisation that provides essential services, including homework support, creative arts workshops, and consistent sports programmes, to provide alternatives to gang involvement. The tournament serves as an extension of these community efforts by fostering resilience and collaboration among the youth during a period when school activities are suspended. The success of such programmes relies heavily on the continued involvement of community leaders and local volunteers committed to creating a safer environment for the next generation.
Tournament matches will continue until the scheduled closing ceremony on Friday.