Zak Hajat, Leicester Nirvana Chair received a prestigious Special Recognition Award, honoring his exceptional contributions to grassroots football. The award was presented at our home ground in Hamilton by the Leicestershire and Rutland County FA (LRCFA). The award celebrates the hard work of volunteers who impact local sports. Zak's dedication exemplifies the spirit of grassroots football, earning him a well-deserved place among the 17 individuals recognised for their outstanding achievements this year.
At Leicester Nirvana, we are dedicated to championing the empowerment of women and girls through a diverse array of initiatives that promote physical activity, mental well-being, and personal growth. Our mission is clear: to support females in discovering and realising their highest potential, both on and off the football pitch.
Our flagship programs include:
Girls
Nirvana Girls Football, which offers young girls aged 5 to 14 a unique opportunity to engage in the beautiful game in a welcoming and inclusive environment tailored exclusively for them. Through our Wildcats and Squad Girls Football sessions, we provide regular chances for girls to partake in football, gaining a sense of camaraderie, skill development, and fun. Our coaching approach prioritises fun and holistic child development, led by skilled FA-qualified or in-training coaches who prioritise child safety and well-being. Each session is designed to be an enriching experience where young players can grow physically, socially, and emotionally, learning life-enhancing values such as respect, teamwork, confidence, and self-belief along the way.
Women
Beyond our youth programs, Leicester Nirvana has expanded its outreach to women through partnerships such as the collaboration with Rara Avis FC, offering both participation and competitive football sessions twice a week. This initiative aims to create a space where women can flourish and excel in the sport they are passionate about. As well as sessions dedicated to having fun and taking part in physical activity. Whatever the reason, there is a place for you here.
Wellbeing
Moreover, recognising the importance of holistic well-being, Leicester Nirvana has joined forces with Womentum to establish a dedicated women-only well-being morning, offering a safe and supportive environment for women to connect, converse, and engage in physical activities at their own pace.
These diverse opportunities and safe spaces for women are instrumental in reshaping perceptions and transforming spaces into positive, empowering environments. By providing avenues for women and girls to participate, grow, and thrive, Leicester Nirvana are showing the commitment to building a culture of inclusivity, resilience, and empowerment in our community.
For more information on how you or your child can join our empowering programs, contact;
• Girl’s football lnfcsecretary@gmail.com
• Women’s football raraavislc@gmail.com
• Women’s wellbeing womentumcic@yahoo.com
Together, let’s inspire and uplift women and girls to reach greater heights, both in the world of football and beyond.
Leicester Nirvana Football Club has been named as a distinguished shortlist nominee for the esteemed Sport Positive Awards 2024, a global platform celebrating the exceptional contributions of organisations and individuals leveraging the influence of sport to address pressing environmental issues, such as the climate and biodiversity crises, and championing environmental and climate justice.
The Sport Positive Awards recognise outstanding achievements within the sport and sustainability sector, highlighting transformative initiatives that drive positive change worldwide. Leicester Nirvana's commitment to sustainability, community engagement, and purpose-led partnerships aligns closely with the awards' dedication to honoring leaders at the forefront of sustainable practices in global sport.
Established categories for the Sport Positive Awards 2024, including Transformation, Climate Impact Reduction, Community Initiative, Education and Training, Purpose-led Partnership, Biodiversity Project, Next Generation Trailblazer, and more, underscore the diverse spectrum of impactful efforts being acknowledged during the prestigious event.
"We are delighted to have been shortlisted for the Sport Positive Awards 2024. To be recognised on a global scale for the effort and work we have achieved towards our sustainable ambitions is brilliant. We are passionate about sustainable development goals and have embedded them across our club. Hopefully we can inspire others to do the same." said Zak Hajat, Chair of Leicester Nirvana.
Winners of the Sport Positive Awards will be revealed at a grand ceremony held at The Kia Oval on the evening of Tuesday, 8th October, where nominees and others will come together to celebrate and honor the global impact of sustainable practices within the sport industry.
Leicester Nirvana embraces this prestigious nomination with gratitude and enthusiasm, acknowledging the collective efforts that have propelled the club into the distinguished shortlist for the 2024 Sport Positive Awards.
For more information on Leicester Nirvana Football Club and their sustainability initiatives, please visit the dedicated sustainability page http://www.leicesternirvana.com/net-zero
Leicester Nirvana FC (Nirvana) is a club deeply committed to encouraging inclusivity and community values and is one of the most progressive clubs in the country regarding taking an anti-discrimination stance in grassroots football.
The launch of the ‘NO RACISM’ logo on their shirt’s demonstrates Nirvana's resolve to eliminate discrimination and intolerance from the game. Emphasizing the club's dedication to creating a welcoming and respectful environment for all.
Founded in the vibrant inner-city neighbourhood of Highfields, Leicester in the 1980’s, Nirvana has been a beacon of hope and unity, advocating for diversity and equality within the footballing community. The club’s diverse membership mirrors the rich collage of its surroundings, exemplifying Nirvana's strong stance against racism and its unwavering support for players from all backgrounds to excel in the sport.
The 'NO RACISM' logo has been adopted from German club, FC Internationale Berlin in a bid to create a unified global movement.
The 'NO RACISM' logo will sit on the back of their shirts for the upcoming 2024/25 season, and proudly demonstrates Nirvana’s commitment to promoting solidarity, respect, and inclusivity on and off the pitch.
This signals a significant step forward in Nirvana's ongoing efforts to champion diversity and stand against discrimination in football, both in the UK and abroad.
Are you passionate about photography and football? Do you have a keen eye for capturing unforgettable moments on the field? Leicester Nirvana FC wants YOU to join our team as a Volunteer Photographer!
About Leicester Nirvana FC: Leicester Nirvana FC isn't just a football club; we're a vibrant community dedicated to the beautiful game. As one of the most dynamic clubs in Leicester, we're committed to fostering talent, creating memorable experiences, and bringing the thrill of football to fans of all ages.
Why Volunteer with Us?
Front Row Access: Get up close and personal with the action! You'll be on the side-lines, capturing every goal, every celebration, and every heart-stopping moment.
Build Your Portfolio: Whether you're an experienced photographer or just starting, this is a fantastic opportunity to build your portfolio with stunning sports photography.
Be Part of the Team: Join a passionate community of football lovers, where your work will be appreciated and showcased across our social media platforms and website.
What You'll Do:
Snap electrifying action shots during matches
Capture the team's spirit and camaraderie on and off the field
Create visually stunning content for our social media and promotional materials
Requirements:
Passion for photography and football
Own your camera equipment
Availability for matchdays and occasional events
How to Apply: If you're ready to bring your photography skills to life with Leicester Nirvana FC, we want to hear from you! Send us your portfolio or samples of your work to leicesternirvana@gmail.com, and let's kick off this exciting journey together!
Join Leicester Nirvana FC and capture the passion of football through your lens. Be part of something extraordinary!
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