Living in fear of gunshots and kidnappings was Vivian Mejia's reality before finding support from the Fundació Tennis Barcelona. This charitable organisation, a partner of the Conde de Godó Tournament, empowers vulnerable young people across Barcelona and its metropolitan area through tennis and educational scholarships.
Empowering Barcelona's Youth Through Sport
The Fundació Tennis Barcelona, established in 2019, aims to consolidate social action initiatives already underway. Anna Turull, the organisation's director, stated, "It was our way of giving something back to the city, everything it had given us." The foundation decided to offer tennis lessons to children lacking the resources to play the sport. However, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, activities could not commence until 2021.
Vivian, a 20-year-old Honduran scholarship recipient, shared her past struggles. "It is horrible to hear gunshots, ambulances, police cars, to go out into the street with fear and to be afraid that something will happen to you, that you will be kidnapped," she recounted. Her scholarship, secured in September 2024, covers her higher education studies in Natural Environment and Leisure Guide.
Initial Outreach and Expansion
After collecting equipment like rackets and balls from partners, the foundation collaborated with Càritas to find a suitable space in the Barceloneta neighbourhood. What began as a municipal multi-sports court transformed into a dedicated tennis court with marked lines and mini-tennis nets. Turull explained, "It was humble, but we saw that it worked, and from there, we decided to multiply it."
The initiative then expanded to Torre Baró, a district featured in the award-winning film 'El 47,' where classes take place in a school playground due to a lack of dedicated courts. The programme now reaches 15 high-complexity neighbourhoods across Barcelona and its metropolitan area. These areas include Poble-sec, Poblenou, Guinardó, Sant Andreu, Besòs, and Raval within the city. It also extends to metropolitan areas such as Santa Coloma de Gramenet, Badalona, L'Hospitalet, and Cornellà, addressing significant social needs.
Impact and Scholarship Programme
The programme reached 453 participants aged 6 to 17 in 2025, marking the highest registration figures since its inception. Turull emphasised the broader benefits, stating, "Tennis is an instrument to improve their physical and emotional health. We want them to feel safe in this space." The foundation prioritises creating secure environments for its young participants.
In 2024, the foundation launched a new sports scholarship programme. This initiative supports young people finishing their compulsory secondary education (ESO) who enjoy sports. It provides opportunities for further study, aiming to secure a future with more possibilities. The scholarships cover essential expenses and complementary activities, thanks to agreements with social entities that ensure ongoing support throughout the educational process.
Vivian's scholarship exemplifies this support. "The degree is very expensive, and neither my mother nor I could afford it. It has helped me a lot, and it is proving a great experience," Vivian stated. She now works two days a week with children at the Club de Tennis Barcelona, gaining practical experience and contributing to the community. She admits, "I do not know much about tennis, I am more into football, but I learn from them and they learn from me."
Community and Fundraising Efforts
Vivian also credits the sport with significant personal growth. "It has helped me to socialise. It is a way to distract myself, to free myself. It gives me health and happiness," she reflected. The foundation's programmes offer more than just sports training; they foster personal development and well-being.
The Fundació Tennis Barcelona also runs campaigns involving professional tennis players from the Conde de Godó Tournament. The winning player donates their racket, which is then raffled off. The funds raised directly support the tennis school and its various initiatives. Turull concluded, "This helps us achieve our core pillars: making children happy and changing lives."
Through its expanding network of programmes and dedicated support, the Fundació Tennis Barcelona continues to provide vital opportunities. It offers a pathway to education and employment for young people in Barcelona's most vulnerable communities, fostering integration and a brighter future.
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Originally published by El País Barcelona. Read original article.
