Viva Sport builds the best version of children through sports

What happens when children are given a stage to speak, compete, and grow? You see confidence rise, you hear brilliant ideas and you witness values in action.

Viva Sport ran a vibrant Sports and Speech Competition at ACOP in Mbare on 27 July 2025, bringing together over 300 children from 12 communities. The day was alive with energy as children engaged in spelling bees, impromptu speeches, quizzes, and games. Beyond the fun and excitement, the purpose was clear: to empower children through learning, build their confidence, and strengthen their values.

This event was part of the ongoing Viva Sport program, which helps children grow in character, community, and protection through sport, education, and faith.

Building Skills Through Fun

Children from diverse backgrounds came together to learn, compete, and celebrate what it means to be confident, respectful, and value-driven. They tackled challenges like the Easter Quiz, Spelling Bee, Word Search, and the Impromptu Speech Competition. These activities were not only enjoyable but also helped children improve public speaking, think on their feet, and express themselves boldly and respectfully.

At the heart of it all were the 10 Viva Sport Values, which guided every game, every answer, and every round of applause:

1. Love – teaches children empathy, kindness, and care for others.
2. Trust – helps children build integrity and strong relationships.
3. Peace – encourages conflict resolution without violence.
4. Equity – reminds children that everyone deserves fairness and opportunity.
5. Respect – helps children value themselves and others with dignity.
6. Honest – shapes children into truthful, responsible individuals.
7. Discipline – builds self-control, focus, and commitment to goals.
8. Cooperation – teaches teamwork, unity, and supporting one another.
9. Good Communication – helps children express themselves and listen to others.
10. Perseverance – inspires children to keep going even when life is tough.

These values are more than words. They are life skills that shape confident, responsible, and compassionate children who can lead their communities into a brighter future.

Leadership and Inspiration

The event drew strong support from leaders and mentors. VNZ Director Mr. Widdlack, Coach Takudzwa, and Mrs. Nason were present to cheer on the children and encourage their growth. The keynote speaker, Sir Robert, used the occasion to highlight serious issues like child and women protection, and how platforms like this can shape safer, stronger communities.

Behind the scenes, youth leaders and Sunday school teachers guided the children, ensuring their participation was smooth and meaningful. Qualified judges ensured fairness and integrity in every competition, while Overseer Shava opened and closed the day in prayer, grounding the event in love, unity, and faith.

A Day to Remember

Photos and videos captured the joy, talent, and determination of the children, lasting reminders of the power of giving children space to be seen and heard. A shared lunch at the end of the day turned the celebration into a true community gathering, leaving children and guests with full stomachs and full hearts.

Raising a Value-Driven Generation

For Viva Network Zimbabwe, the day was more than a success. It was proof that when children are given safe and meaningful spaces, they grow in skill, confidence, and character. Through Viva Sport, and with the continued support of partners, churches, and volunteers, we are raising a generation that is confident, informed, and rooted in values.