Smashing Barriers Through Table Tennis: ITTF Foundation’s Visit to UTT Season 6 and KKM’s DBF Project in India
Earlier this month, the ITTF Foundation returned to Kapadwanj Kelavani Mandal (KKM) for a second visit to the Dream Building Fund (DBF) project, “Smash Barriers: Every Table is a Playground.” This follow-up visit came after the launch of the project and our initial visit last year. This time, it was meaningfully combined with our presence at Ultimate Table Tennis (UTT) Season 6, highlighting our crucial partnership for the World Table Tennis for Health Festival.
From Ahmedabad to Kapadwanj: A Dual-Purpose Journey
Our journey began in Ahmedabad, where we joined the UTT Season 6 finals, a spectacular event that also served as a platform to amplify our vision and mission. With a dedicated Foundation booth supported by two enthusiastic volunteers, we introduced fans and spectators to our initiatives of using table tennis as a tool for social change, and shared the impact stories of our programmes, including the World Table Tennis for Health Festival. We are grateful that our programmes were also featured in the local media, helping raise awareness and support for sport-driven social development.
Besides the thrilling matches, the Foundation team, including Director Leandro Olvech, Operations Manager Lina Kühlein, and our Governing Board Member and UTT Chairperson Vita Dani, travelled to Kapadwanj to reconnect with the KKM team and witness first-hand the evolution of the “Smash Barriers” project. Aligned with the UN Sustainable Development Goal 10: Reduced Inequalities, the project focuses on promoting quality education and ensuring equal opportunities for both boys and girls.
Witnessing Impact in the Communities
Led by the dedicated team at KKM, we visited one of the project sites, which brings together several schools and communities. From the moment we arrived, the warmth of the welcome was palpable. In each community, we had the chance to witness table tennis sessions facilitated by committed local teachers and fellows.
Over the course of the visit, we interacted with 35 children and youth and 15 parents who participate in the programme. Friendly matches sparked laughter and joy, embodying the essence of the project’s mission: breaking down barriers through table tennis. From the smallest rally to the biggest smile, the impact of this project was undeniable.
Meanwhile, we were moved by several powerful stories shared by participants. One example came from a mother who recently allowed her daughter to travel to Delhi for a table tennis competition, which was the first time her daughter had ever left the village. Her decision was met with questions and doubts from the community: “How can you send your daughter so far away? That’s dangerous.” But she stood firm. Her courageous choice not only gave her daughter a life-changing experience but also inspired other mothers in the community to support their own children’s participation in tournaments, helping them broaden their horizons and build self-confidence.
Another meaningful moment occurred during a group reflection session. Several participants and facilitators were initially hesitant to speak in English, feeling shy and embarrassed. At first, they relied on others to translate, but with gentle encouragement from the group, they found the confidence to speak up in English themselves. It was a heartwarming display of mutual support and a reminder that the project fosters not only sporting skills but also self-belief and shared growth.
Insights and Reflections
The visit concluded with a presentation from the KKM project team, offering insights into the project’s achievements, challenges, and future direction. The team candidly shared their progress, impact stories, and the real-world challenges they are navigating, including strategies to overcome them.
It was a moment of reflection and mutual learning, as well as a powerful reminder that the success of a DBF project lies in strong and continuous collaboration.
The Foundation’s Director, Leandro Olvech, shared: “This second visit reaffirmed our belief in the long-term value of DBF projects. Seeing the growth and enthusiasm in the communities gives us motivation to deepen our support and impact together.”
Looking Ahead
We extend our heartfelt thanks to UTT for their ongoing support of our core values and initiatives, and to KKM for their unwavering dedication and hospitality. This visit marks not only another chapter in our partnership with KKM but also signals a deepening commitment to all our Dream Building Fund projects around the globe.
As we move forward, we are looking forward to the opening of a new application cycle for the DBF programme later this year. We invite all those who believe in the power of sport for social change to start preparing their ideas and stay tuned for upcoming details.