The Don Bosco institutions in Kerala, in collaboration with BREADS Bangalore, officially launched the Sports for Change programme, through a mega event on 14 November 2025 in Kochi. Celebrating Children’s Day with a difference, the event brought together over 6000 children and young people in a walkathon to raise awareness on substance abuse and to encourage healthier lifestyles through sports and positive engagement. Beginning at Rajendra Maidan, all the children and youth walked together with great energy and purpose.to Durbar Hall ground.
As the crowd moved through the city, it was clear how strongly young people felt about the need to protect themselves and one another from the growing dangers of addiction.
Throughout the programme, social and cultural leaders addressed the participants, reinforcing the importance of collective action in protecting young people from addiction. Key public representatives present at the event included opposition leader V D Satheesan, Chandy Oommen MLA, K N Unnikrishnan MLA, T J Vinod MLA and officials from the police and excise departments. Their presence encouraged the young participants to continue choosing sports, discipline and positive engagement over harmful influences.
The gathering also featured the participation of child actor Devananda, film personalities, educators and community leaders who interacted with the children and youth. Their messages highlighted the need for resilience, responsible decision-making and mutual support within the community. The event was led by the Don Bosco teams in collaboration with Kerala Police, the Narcotics Cell and partner organisations.
The Walkathon concluded with a strong and united call to work together to break the cycle of addiction affecting young people today. The large turnout and active involvement of students, youth, and community members demonstrated the growing awareness about substance abuse and the willingness to protect the wellbeing of the younger generation.
This event strongly aligned with the mission of BREADS and the Sports for Change programme, highlighting how sports can inspire discipline, confidence, and healthy habits among children and youth. The walkathon fostered a spirit of solidarity and hope, reaffirming the shared commitment to building safer, healthier and more supportive communities across Kerala.
