Social Responsibility
Held on April 15, 2025, at Special School No. 52 in Tashkent, the fun-filled event welcomed more than 140 children, uniting them in a day of joy, empowerment and belonging through the beautiful game.
The event was marked by the presence of several esteemed guests, including UFA Senior Vice President Ravshan Irmatov, U23 national team head coach Ravshan Khaydarov, women’s national team head coach Kotrina Kulbite and several national team players, who actively engaged in games, football challenges and relay activities, much to the delight of the young participants.
A major highlight of the event was a youth engagement session with AFC Dream Asia Ambassador and national team striker Ms. Makhliyo Sarikova who shared personal anecdotes that helped the children feel included and inspired in a football setting.
The positive interaction between the participants and towering figures of the community also made for a safe, enjoyable environment that celebrated diversity and strengthened awareness of the importance of using football to usher social development.
As the day-long festivities ended, the participants were gifted footballs and T-shirts as memorabilia, while the positive feedback further strengthened the UFA’s commitment to devising further opportunities to bring societal change through football.
UFA General Secretary Avaz Maksumov of the Uzbekistan FA said: “The AFC Dream Asia Foundation (ADAF) has once again helped the Uzbekistan FA demonstrate the unifying power of football to promote inclusion, respect, and equal opportunities for all.
“This initiative not only brought smiles to the faces of young participants but also raised awareness of the importance of social responsibility in football. We are proud to be part of the AFC’s vision to make the game truly for all and look forward to continuing this impactful journey in the years to come.”
With the “We Are All Equal” programme successfully instilling self-confidence and an increased sense of happiness among the attendees, the event was yet another instance of the ADAF’s overarching theme of “Football Cares” coming to life.