The Amsterdam Futsal Tournament (AFT) is one of HIRDA’s flagship annual events, combining sport, community building, and youth empowerment. Over the years, it has developed into more than just a futsal competition. It is a platform that brings together young people of Somali origin in the Netherlands, while also welcoming participants from diverse backgrounds and communities.
HIRDA launched the tournament with a clear vision: to use sport as a tool for social change. For many young people, sport offers not only recreation but also a space to build confidence, develop teamwork, and create friendships across cultural and social boundaries. The AFT provides exactly this environment—where inclusion, mutual respect, and fair play are central values.
The tournament attracts dozens of teams each year and fills Amsterdam’s sports halls with energy and excitement. Beyond the matches, the event creates opportunities for dialogue and cultural exchange. Families, community members, and leaders attend to support the players, strengthening ties within the diaspora while building bridges with the wider Dutch society.
A unique aspect of the AFT is its role in showcasing positive role models. Many participants have gone on to excel not only in sports but also in education, professional careers, and community leadership. By celebrating their achievements, the tournament inspires a new generation to strive for success both on and off the pitch.
Ultimately, the Amsterdam Futsal Tournament reflects HIRDA’s broader mission: to empower communities through innovative, inclusive initiatives. By using futsal as a medium, HIRDA reaches young people in an accessible and engaging way, turning sport into a vehicle for integration, personal development, and social cohesion. The AFT stands as proof that even a simple game can create lasting impact.