Madagascar_Jaeyeon Park 2025

In one of the poorest countries in the world, in a slum area on the outskirts of Madagascar’s capital, a small soccer program called Joy Team has been running for more than ten years. Every Wednesday afternoon and on weekends, between 60 and sometimes as many as 80 children gather to play. They learn soccer, run, laugh, and grow together.  With the support of GCF, all the children received new training uniforms in June and July to celebrate Independence Day, and in August, a three-day camp was held in Antsirabe. On average, about 75 children have been participating regularly each week. Through studying the Book of Proverbs, they are learning habits of wise living. Their faces now shine with confidence, and they are developing teamwork and a sense of responsibility.  Children who were once quiet and withdrawn now greet others with bright smiles, encourage their friends, and show a willingness to serve. Joy Team has become more than just a soccer class—it is now a “school of hope,” where children grow in God’s Word and learn to shine their light in the world.  From a single soccer ball in a poor neighborhood, lives are being transformed.