HONIARA (Solomon Islands) - More than 100 young ballers gathered at the Solomon Islands National Institute of Sport Indoor Court in Honiara last month for the Basketball For Good Mini Festival, a one-day event promoting inclusion, gender equality, and youth empowerment through sport.
Held under the theme Hoops for Equality, the one-day event was a celebration of sport as a tool for inclusion, gender equality, and community connection, underpinning FIBA’s Strategic Priorities of Empowering National Federations and Women in Basketball.
The festival featured skill-building workshops, a 3x3 basketball tournament, and music. The event was supported by local coaches, community leaders, and parents, all contributing to a vibrant and inclusive atmosphere.
Youth voices were central throughout the festival.
“It’s not just about basketball, it’s about building character and community,” said Winnie Laura, a local Basketball For Good Coach. “We want to use sport to teach respect, teamwork, and equality.”
Participants tipped off the day with a welcome ceremony, followed by basketball drills and a safeguarding workshop focused on safe sporting environments. The youth tournament was competitive, with mixed-gender teams producing fast-paced matches that emphasised teamwork and respect.
A live DJ and open mic session brought music and movement to the lunch break, while afternoon workshops explored leadership, gender equality, and life skills. Parents joined in for team-building activities and a Coaches vs Youth game that capped off the day.
“I loved that we played in mixed teams,” said participant Wilson Langston . “It didn’t matter if you were a boy or girl, we were all just players.”
Basketball For Good in the Solomon Islands
Basketball for Good is a sport for development program in the Solomon Islands. The grassroots program focusses on addressing gender inequality and bringing about positive change. The program is implemented by the Solomon Islands Basketball Federation with the support of Team Up, and FIBA to provide opportunities for youth, women, girls, and persons with disabilities to enjoy the benefits of sport.