Impact Report - 2025 DRAFT-2 - Flipbook - Page 15
From Detroit to the World:
OMAR’S FRIENDSHIP GAMES EXPERIENCE
When 14-year-old Omar arrived at the Friendship Games in Detroit this summer, he wasn’t
sure what to expect. Even though the event was in his hometown, it felt entirely new.
Connecting with peers from around the world opened Omar’s eyes to cultural differences
and shared experiences. “I haven't really been able to do that in my life and just having that
opportunity was great.“
Basketball was the entry point —
especially the 3-on-3 tournament —
but the relationships he formed left the
biggest impact. He bonded closely
with participants from Northern
Ireland. “They had a good sense of
humor.” He also embraced learning
from others, sharing that “The girls
from the Middle East were teaching
me Hebrew and Arabic. That was
pretty cool.” These moments helped
him see how much people have in
common. “You really are able to see
how similar people are, even though
we’re
in
completely
different
countries,” he reflected.
The Friendship Games also helped Omar grow personally. Once “very, very shy,” he
challenged himself to step outside his comfort zone. “I kind of just tried to shut my brain off
and go do it,” he said, encouraged by the welcoming environment. Today, he’s still in touch
with friends from Northern Ireland, the Middle East, South Africa, and Detroit. His advice to
future participants: “Just be yourself. Go talk to people. Have a great time.”
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