Kicking Stress Out at Work – Inaugural Football Tournament

Activity Report

Location: Kisumu
Activity Date: 08.11.2024
Start Time: 8:30 AM   End Time: 7:00 PM

Facilitators: All Better Me Staff Members
Number of Participants: 325
Male: 123   Female: 202

Activity Purpose/ Summary:
On November 8, 2024, Better Me took part in the first-ever “Kicking Stress Out at Work” event, hosted at the Kisumu National Polytechnic grounds. This initiative targeted organizations and government institutions involved in the mental health sector. The event aimed to foster team bonding, mental well-being, and stress relief through physical activity, promoting a healthy work-life balance among staff members. The day’s highlight was a football tournament featuring over 10 different organizations, offering a lively and enjoyable platform for interaction and collaboration among groups working in mental health.

Personnel Input:
As participants in Group B alongside HEDSO, Kenya Red Cross, and Jijenge Youth Organization, Better Me’s team prepared rigorously for each game. Our staff members took on various roles to support the team, from managing pre-game warm-ups to playing in each of the matches, including the final. Other team members ensured that refreshments and food were provided throughout the day, while a team member with first aid skills took on the responsibility of “team doctor,” tending to any injuries. A spirit of teamwork and encouragement resonated throughout the day as staff members cheered on their team, celebrating each victory and supporting each player on and off the field.

Achievements:
Better Me’s team delivered an outstanding performance in the tournament, winning all our group matches (2-1, 2-0, and 3-0) and ultimately securing victory in the finals against the Homeless of Kisumu team through an exhilarating penalty shoot-out. Our staff members showed remarkable team spirit, resilience, and unity, taking on various supportive roles and ensuring smooth participation. The event highlighted the strength of Better Me’s team dynamics, with several members stepping up as leaders, motivators, and key players both on the field and in organizing the day’s logistics.

Unanticipated Achievements:
An unexpected yet welcome surprise was the support and participation from several Better Me beneficiaries, students at the Polytechnic, who joined in as players and fans. Their presence added an extra layer of excitement and support, fostering a sense of community and continuity in Better Me’s mission. Moreover, the team discovered new talents and skills within their members, ranging from first aid abilities to exceptional leadership qualities and sportsmanship, which strengthened team bonds and broadened mutual appreciation among colleagues.

Supporting Partners:
Blue Cross
HEDSO
Jijenge Youth Organisation
Kenya Recross Kisumu Chapter
HOK
TINADA

November 8, 2024

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