In an inspiring endeavor to empower Indian youth through sports, Japanese social activist and soccer enthusiast Nozomu “Nono” Hagihara has embarked on a remarkable 2,000-kilometer solo dribbling journey from Kolkata to New Delhi. Commencing on March 3, 2025, this ambitious expedition aims to promote gender equality, health awareness, and cross-cultural exchange among underprivileged children in rural India.
Nono’s journey began at the Consulate General of Japan in Kolkata, where he was flagged off by Consul-General NAKAGAWA Koichi. Over approximately 90 days, he will traverse the states of Jharkhand, Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, and Haryana, culminating his journey in New Delhi at the Embassy of Japan. This path mirrors the historic routes that have long connected diverse cultures and communities across India.
Empowering Youth Through Football Workshops
Throughout his journey, Nono plans to conduct around 50 football workshops in villages along the route. These sessions will focus on:
• Gender Equality
• Hygiene Practices
• Nutritional Awareness
By integrating these essential life skills into football training, Nono aims to empower children, especially girls, fostering confidence and resilience through sports.
A Vision for Cultural Exchange
Beyond the immediate impact of his workshops, Nono envisions a broader cultural exchange. He is actively raising funds to facilitate a sports exchange program that will enable 20 to 30 children from Bihar to visit Japan. This initiative seeks to broaden their horizons, enhance their football skills, and immerse them in a new cultural environment, thereby inspiring them to pursue their dreams.
Attempting a Guinness World Record
Adding a historic dimension to his mission, Nono is officially attempting to set a Guinness World Record for the longest dribbling distance. This endeavor not only showcases his dedication to the sport but also symbolizes the limitless possibilities that determination and passion can unlock.
Challenges Along the Way
Nono’s journey is fraught with challenges, including:
• Extreme Weather Conditions: Facing temperatures ranging from 33°C to 43°C.
• Limited Access to Hygienic Food: Navigating areas where roadside eateries may not meet health standards.
• Healthcare Accessibility: Traversing regions with scarce medical facilities suitable for foreigners.
• Accommodation Difficulties: Encountering lodging options that may not be authorized to host international travelers.
• Safety Concerns: Sleeping in tents or sleeping bags, which may expose him to potential security risks.
Despite these obstacles, Nono’s unwavering commitment to his mission drives him forward, embodying the spirit of resilience he hopes to instill in others.
A Legacy of Social Impact
Nono’s passion for social change through sports is longstanding. After leaving his position at Toyota Motor Corporation, he founded FC Nono in 2021, a football club dedicated to providing underprivileged children in rural Bihar with opportunities for personal and athletic development. Through this platform, he has been instrumental in addressing social issues such as health management, nutrition, education, and sanitation, all through the lens of football.
Call to Action: Supporting the Mission
To amplify the impact of his journey, Nono is seeking support from individuals and organizations. Donations will contribute to the sports exchange program, offering children from Bihar a transformative experience in Japan. Every contribution brings these children one step closer to a brighter future.
Conclusion
Nono’s 2,000-kilometer dribbling journey is more than a physical challenge; it is a testament to the power of sports as a catalyst for social change. By addressing critical issues such as gender equality, health, and cultural exchange, his mission resonates with the universal values of perseverance and hope. As he dribbles across the heartland of India, Nono not only sets a path for others to follow but also lights the way toward a more inclusive and empowered future for the youth.
Source: https://www.fcnono.com/en/post/20250304_en?utm_source=chatgpt.com
