Play it Forward

About us

Play it Forward is a UK registered Charity organization No.1177278 and a Zambian registered Non-profit organization No.120170010072.
Play it Forward was developed from a vision that people’s love for football can be used to build opportunities and take control of their own lives. We want to create a world in which every young Zambian has the opportunity to reach their full potential and thrive.

Since our inception in 2017, Play it Forward has been dedicated to making a positive impact on the lives of Zambian communities. We are passionate about reducing poverty and improving livelihoods through sustainable projects that are owned and driven by the very people we serve.
In both urban and rural areas where we operate, young people, especially girls, face a myriad of challenges. High rates of unemployment and poverty place them at significant risk of exploitation, including child marriage, teenage pregnancy, gender-based violence, drug and alcohol addiction, and involvement in criminal activities. These issues can result in profound trauma and mental health concerns.
We work closely with communities to provide life-changing opportunities that enable young people to reach their full potential and thrive. Our approach is rooted in close and equal partnership between Play it Forward in the UK and our Zambian registered NGO counterpart, known locally as Play it Forward Zambia. What sets us apart is that our Zambian team is composed of individuals from the very communities we work in. This unique advantage provides us with an unparalleled understanding of the challenges and needs on the ground.

Programmes:
• Education: Play it Forward engages, supports and inspires pupils and teachers alike to develop their knowledge, skills and confidence in the classroom and the playground. Our highly-qualified workforce empowers young people to improve their attainment, attendance and behavior. We’re deeply committed to supporting schools and empowering young people across the Southern Province of Zambia. Our delivery for young people includes Readers are Leaders Literacy Club; After School Tuition; Digital Skills Coding Club; Own Your Destiny. We use play to spark a lifelong love of learning in every child, making it enjoyable, active, and engaging. Play helps children stay in school, perform better, and develop essential life skills like confidence, creativity, and resilience. We train teachers to implement play-based learning, creating safe, supportive, and stimulating environments for children. Additionally, we collaborate with Ministry of Education and other local community-based organisations to integrate play-based learning into the education system, enabling more children to thrive.
• Health and Wellbeing: We are breaking down barriers to ignite healthy lifestyle changes in our communities, regardless of age, ability, or background. With access to our training facility, sports equipment and qualified coaches, we empower young people to improve their physical health, mental wellbeing and social connectedness. Play it Forward provides physical and mental wellbeing programmes for people of all ages. Our delivery for young people includes Everyday Nutrition; Play & Prevent; Own Your Destiny; School Gardens; Community Football; Kick for Change. We train teachers and coaches to create safe spaces where children can openly discuss significant health issues like HIV/AIDS, malaria, sexual reproductive health, addiction and hygiene. Through interactive games on the football pitch, we provide young people with accurate information about their health and the diseases impacting their communities, empowering them to overcome misinformation and stigma.
• Entrepreneurship & Employment: Play it Forward is helping young people across Zambia to achieve their academic potential and take their first steps into a rewarding career. Using our unique reach, we can inspire and engage young people in their education, providing them a stable foundation to build the rest of their lives upon. Play it Forward supports school leavers with 16+ employability provision. Our delivery for young people includes Digital Skills Professional Development Course; Scholarship Support; Entrepreneurship workshops. We empower young people with the skills and opportunities needed for meaningful employment and entrepreneurship. By creating environments that spark creativity, problem-solving, and innovation, we help young people to explore interests, build skills, and gain confidence. We provide training in digital skills, preparing them for the work in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics STEM-related careers. Collaborating with local businesses, we offer mentorship, internships, and job placements, bridging education and employment. For aspiring entrepreneurs, we offer workshops on business planning, financial literacy, and market analysis, turning ideas into viable ventures. Our local partners provide resources, funding, and support to sustain and grow these businesses, empowering community development.

Jake Criswick is the Chief Executive Officer of Play it Forward.

For other net participants we can offer an expert guidance through trained staff, give an expert opinion, procure expert information and establish new contacts in the field of our work.