Maryam Banikarim 🗽🚕 ❤️’s Post

🌟🏆 Sports: More than just entertainment! 🌍⚽ Sports shape individuals & communities, leveraging their potential. It fosters teamwork, discipline, & perseverance - qualities that pave the way to success.💪 From physical health to mental well-being, sports offer a multitude of benefits. They enhance fitness, reduce chronic illnesses, & boost mental health. Let's not forget the cognitive benefits - improved memory, concentration, & resilience!🧠 Through sports, individuals build transferable skills, set goals, manage time, & handle competition gracefully. It's a platform for personal development, nurturing dedication & resilience.🥇 Sports foster social integration, breaking barriers & creating a sense of belonging. Teammates become friends, supporting each other on & off the field.🌐 In education & career, sports teach life skills like teamwork, leadership, & discipline. Scholarships open doors to higher education, while employers value the work ethic & teamwork skills developed through sports.🎓💼 Sports promote equality & social justice, providing equal opportunities. Inclusive programs challenge stereotypes, promote diversity, & foster understanding.🌈 Investing in sports yields economic benefits - attracting tourists, creating jobs, & boosting local economies. Successful athletes become ambassadors, attracting sponsorships & endorsements.💰📈 Governments worldwide recognize sports' importance, funding programs & organizing events. They aim to create healthier populations, foster social integration, & drive economic growth.🌍🏢 Join the sports revolution! Let's harness its power to shape a better future - for individuals, communities, & the world. 🌟🌍⚽ #SportsRev

We are #HIRING 👉 Ready to drive Sports Sustainability from within? Join #EcoSportsPro ⭐️ Last week, I shared what, in my opinion, constituted the #perfect sports sustainability training. 💭 I curated my "#DreamTeam" of sports sustainability experts, individuals whose knowledge I admire and whom I'd love to learn from. However, this wasn't about #EcoSportsPro; I hadn't reached out to any of these experts to join the course. 🙅♂️ Why? 🤔 Because we're not building your #typical training program, where experts are paid a fee to deliver a fast-made one-hour Zoom lecture and move on. 🚫 No, what I envision is a #community of like-minded individuals committed to taking sustainability to the next level, sharing their expertise in the most impactful way possible. ✨ EcoSports Pro is the bridge between #IndustryExperts and those passionate #Novices eager to learn and start doing good in and through sports. 🤝 To achieve this, we need experts fully invested, not just seeking #financial rewards. Following last week's post, some of the people I mentioned expressed surprise yet pride at being included in this program, while others were unsure why they were included. 🧐 To those who were added but didn't wish to be, I apologize, and I hope you won't hold it against me. 🙏🏻 To those who expressed immediate #interest in joining the course, thank you very much; you've demonstrated that our vision is crazy yet achievable. (Carolina, Lewis, Sarah, Nikki, Komal, Tom, Paul, James, Ellie, Guillaume, Tina, Ester, Johanna, Alison, Elena, Guus, François, Laurent, Orsolya, Ellis) 💚 That's why we're now inviting anyone who feels they can contribute to our mission to #apply to become an expert in our Online Training on Sports Sustainability. 💪🏻 #Why join us? There's no better way to drive sustainability in sports than through training. Put simply: You #duplicate your impact 🚀 Imagine the power of educating hundreds or thousands of professionals who will then apply your teachings in their respective areas. 📈 Make no mistake: Experts will be compensated, perhaps even more generously than in similar programs. 💰 But first, we must focus on our primary #goal: Shaping Tomorrow's Green Sports Leaders. 🚀 Curious to learn more? Fill out our #form to connect with us and discover how you can contribute 👉 https://lnkd.in/g4Uv3JVi 👈 #EcoSportsPro #Hiring

I never particularly liked sports. It was never truly my calling. However, despite my disinterest in activities involving physical exertion, I cannot deny the tremendous value of sports. This wasn't always my opinion. I once harbored deep-rooted envy for anyone proficient in physical activities, particularly those requiring skill or strategy. Proficiency in sports always allowed others preference and progression, regardless of any overarching policies or rules. My passions never received this special treatment, which left me feeling aggrieved. At that time, my thinking was narrow. I never saw the holistic value of sports. Sports have significant buy-in from various stakeholders, offering endless opportunities at local, regional, and international levels. Sports also have a deep-rooted history. Over time, they have evolved into social, economic, cultural, and political movements that capture global audiences. Being the best in your league, whether supported or not, brings tremendous attention. We often talk about the pressures of physical performance, but the mental fortitude required is often overlooked. As I've grown older, I've come to see how sports can unite people. This unity isn't just among a small group but can bring together entire nations or regions. When we talk about the pressures of winning a medal, it's not just about winning a race or event. It's about providing a symbol for a country to unite under a common cause. I strongly believe some countries need a win more than others to create a mental shift in their focus, priorities, and national pride. This feeling reverberates through everyone, regardless of whether you're a sports fan. The feeling is intangible, yet unmistakable when you hear that one of your own has become a global champion. That feeling is invaluable and cannot be equated to a monetary value, as people generally shift their overall approach to everything when their country performs well on the global stage. I cannot carry this kind of weight on my shoulders. To be a national athlete on the world stage means bearing a formidable amount of responsibility that most of us can't even comprehend. There is no doubt in my mind that when an athlete misspeaks, feels disappointed, or wishes they could have done better, we should do everything in our power to support them rather than criticize. The weight they carry can be tremendous, and our compassion is what they need to see their careers progress toward the dreams and ambitions they hold for their countries. #SportsUnity #NationalPride #SupportOurAthletes

The 2024 Olympics Opening Ceremony..... Why and how they missed the mark. The Olympics opening ceremony held in Paris on the 26th faced strong backlash from all directions including the general public, conservative groups, celebrities and event sponsors. A scene in the ceremony which attempted to depict a drag artist performance inspired by Leonardo da Vinci's "The Last Supper" faced public backlash and outcry due to religious insensitivity and cultural appropriation. While the core premise of this particular scene was to showcase the current state of affairs in the world through inclusivity by focusing on minority groups, it ended up alienating the general audience and more importantly conservative religious groups. The backlash was so bad in fact that C Spire pulled their support for the Paris Olympics 2024 which has potentially resulted in significant financial losses. There may be more sponsors that have retracted as well but in a less public manner. Moreover, this has also resulted in drawing attention away from the primary purpose of the event which is the achievements of the athletes and the countries they represent. Finally, it has also negatively impacted brand perception that is to follow for the future of any Olympic events. The reason why a performance is being taken so seriously is due to a misalignment with the target audience. While not everyone saw it as a negative, most people did. The targeting was too niche to appeal to the general audience and hence it received major backlash. Moreover, when it comes to taking inspiration from religious moments, it must be done with extreme care as not everyone would perceive it the same way. It takes high levels of audience research and testing to ensure something that is as sensitive as religion/faith appeals to a broad audience such as that of the Olympics where there are people from different backgrounds and faiths. In my opinion, any kind of marketing venture (which is what this is) should exclude sensitive topics no matter how good they seem. With the image below you can see the similarities and how it can be perceived as offensive to people.

United in Hope: Redefining the Future of Sports In this moment of reflection, I am transported back to the incredible event we recently orchestrated. This event was not just a gathering; it was a testament to unity, resilience, and the transformative power of sports, embodying the spirit of dynamic athletes like Jorvorskie 'J Train' Lane and Isaiah Nwokobia, and the inspiring determination of Kaymon Farmer and Mangoceuticals, Inc. **The Unseen Warriors** Behind our event's luminous success lies a narrative rich with dedication and passion. These are the unsung heroes – the meticulous planners, the energetic volunteers – who mirror the tenacity of athletes like 'J Train' Lane and Isaiah Nwokobia. To these pillars of strength and resolve, I extend my deepest appreciation. You are the cornerstone of our collective success. **A Vision of Empowerment** Our event was more than just a sports showcase; it was a beacon of hope, inspired by the likes of Kaymon Farmer and Mangorx, showing that barriers are meant to be broken. Our platform was designed not just to highlight athletic prowess but to kindle a flame of ambition and determination in young athletes, especially those from single parent homes. **Inspiration from the Field to the Future** In the vein of 'Inside The Huddle and 'Sports Media Promotions,' our endeavor aimed to connect on a personal level, humanizing the aspirations of these young talents. It's about creating a 'Lane of Hope' where dreams are nurtured and ambitions are fueled, much like the path forged by the mastermind behind this initiative, Javy **A Call to Action: Join the Movement** This isn't just an invitation, it's a call to action for the esteemed members of this LinkedIn community. Whether you're a seasoned mentor in the mold of Jorvorskie Lane or an innovator like Isaiah Nwokobia, your role is pivotal in igniting the dreams of these young athletes. Let's come together to mentor, support, and inspire, creating a ripple effect of positive change. **The Impact of Unity** Imagine the transformative impact we can create together. Each word of encouragement, every bit of guidance, can be a pivotal moment for a young athlete from a single parent home. We have the power to be the change-makers in their lives, emulating the inspirational journeys of figures like #Kaymonfarmer and #Mangorx. **Gratitude and Forward Momentum** I extend my heartfelt thanks to everyone who contributed to our event. Your involvement has laid the foundation for a movement that goes beyond our initial vision. As we look ahead, let's do so with the determination to inspire and the vision to break new ground. Together, we can redefine what's possible and showcase the extraordinary talent within our communities.

Shout out to our Deputy Director, Kaila'Shea Menendez for this insightful article in SportsTravel Magazine! Kaila'Shea touches on how sports commissions and sports tourism organizations worldwide are increasingly recognizing their role in social impact. Check it out: https://lnkd.in/gDDHB_FX

Sports have a remarkable ability to evoke powerful emotions, creating experiences that are both unforgettable and unique. Whether you're a dedicated athlete, a passionate fan, or a casual observer, the world of sports has a way of touching hearts and inspiring minds. Sports have the power to bring people together. The sense of camaraderie and unity experienced when cheering for a favorite team or player transcends differences in background, culture, and nationality. This collective enthusiasm creates a shared emotional experience that strengthens bonds and builds communities. The stories of athletes themselves also evoke profound emotions. Tales of perseverance, overcoming adversity, and achieving greatness serve as powerful sources of inspiration. Moreover, sports can be a source of personal growth and fulfillment. For athletes, the dedication and hard work required to excel build character and resilience. The highs and lows of sports teach valuable life lessons about perseverance, teamwork, and handling success and failure with grace. In essence, the unique emotions generated by sports are a testament to their universal appeal and significance. They remind us of our shared humanity, our potential for greatness, and the joy of coming together to celebrate extraordinary achievements. Whether on the field, in the stands, or watching from afar, the emotional impact of sports is a powerful force that enriches our lives in countless ways.

Reaching out to my fellow Sports Community! ⚽ ⛹♂️ As part of my master's thesis, I am conducting expert interviews to assess the current state of digital transformation within sports organizations and gain insights into the future of the sports industry. In this pursuit, I am reaching out to you, seeking connections and insights from individuals working within sports organizations, sports companies, and related fields. Whether you are directly involved in the digital transformation efforts of a sports organization, or know someone who is working in the respective industry, I would be thrilled to hear from you. Any insights, contacts, or information would be greatly appreciated. 🏅 Let's connect, collaborate, and let LinkedIn do its thing 💬 #futureofsports #digitaltransformation #sportsindustry

🚨 #EcoSportsPro Expert Unveiling: James Rigby 🌟 👤 Role: Purpose-driven Marketing and Communications Consultant 🍀 Company: J Rigby Consulting Ltd 🏆 Module 6: Green Marketing and Fan Engagement 🔍 #Who Is James Rigby? James is the founder of J Rigby Consulting. He is a London-based marketing and communications expert, and has contributed to the sustainable transformation of sports through his roles at SailGP, New Zealand SailGP Team, HP, Air New Zealand, Les Mills International, and England Rugby. He leverages the power of sport to drive climate action, gender equity and inclusivity through creative marketing and communications 💡 What He #Brings to EcoSports Pro With a talent for integrating sustainability into sports marketing and communications, James has elevated brand awareness and driven impactful climate action narratives across various platforms, significantly advancing the sustainability agenda in sports. He brings high energy and a can-do attitude to every project, and fosters strong relationships and influence key stakeholders with his empathy, compassion, and authenticity. 💫 Why He’s #Inspirational At SailGP, James led purpose-driven campaigns, making it a model for sustainable sport. His strategic initiatives have garnered international recognition, positioning organizations as sustainability leaders within their respective industries. Beyond his professional achievements, James's love for storytelling and global engagement is evidenced by his multilingual abilities and his background in journalism and languages. 💪🏻 His #Impact Through his work, James has directly influenced the perception of sports as a platform for environmental stewardship, reaching over 1.6 billion people worldwide with powerful messages of climate action and inclusivity. By founding his consulting agency, he's taken a bold step to impact sports marketing and communications with a clear focus on sustainability and inclusivity. 😋 His #FunFact Ever wondered if podcasting could save the planet? James might just convince you it can! As the founder and host of podcast A Little Bit Better, James is on a mission to add some zing to the climate conversation. Broadcasting from London, his podcast mixes fun, facts, and fervor, proving that talking about the environment doesn't have to be all doom and gloom. Tune in to hear how each of us can make the world a little bit better, one episode at a time! Join us in welcoming James to the EcoSports Pro family. 💚 Stay tuned for more expert introductions, and get ready to transform your passion for sports into impactful action with EcoSports Pro. More info on #EcoSportsPro 👉 https://lnkd.in/gRvWxADN #PlayforthePlanet

🏅 As athletes compete in the Olympics and Paralympics, we see the possibility of competition without fear or hatred. Can we all learn from their example? 🗞 Correspondent Paul Radford considers whether sport can be an antidote to populism in this week's #Decoder #Replay. 🔗 Read the full story here: https://lnkd.in/ejaxsXMC ************************************************************************* 📰 Paul Radford, former global sports editor at Reuters, has covered 17 #Olympic #Games, seven #World #Cups and numerous world championships in more than 20 sports. He was sports editor for 12 years at the end of a career that included assignments in Germany and Paris. Formerly a consultant to the International Olympic Committee – IOC, he served on the IOC’s press commission for 15 years and was editor-in-chief of the official Olympic News service at the 2014 Winter Olympics in Sochi, Russia. 💡 Our #DecoderReplay series highlights past articles with current relevance. These articles shed light on the roots of an issue, add context to breaking news and are useful for further reading. All articles are written by our correspondents and student reporters in our journalism mentoring programs. 🤝 If you'd like to learn more about our programs or partner with us, we'd love to hear from you. Visit news-decoder.com for more information. #medialiteracy #criticalthinking #globalcitizenship