At this year’s Southeast Asia Junior Individual Championships in Bangkok, young squash players not only showcased their athletic abilities but also engaged in a powerful environmental initiative, highlighting the growing role of sports in nature conservation. Held from May 9-13, the event saw 135 participants from across the region coming together not just to compete but to learn and advocate for a healthy planet through the Sports for Nature initiative.
The Sports for Nature initiative is a collaborative effort led by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), the International Olympic Committee (IOC), the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), and other environmental organizations. Its mission is to leverage the global reach of sports to inspire and implement transformative actions for nature by 2030 and beyond.
World Squash, a proud signatory of the Sports for Nature framework, is committed to four core principles: protecting natural habitats, restoring nature, understanding and reducing environmental risks in sports’ supply chains, and inspiring positive action for nature across the sports community. These principles were reflected throughout the championships, with a focus on educating participants and fans about their shared responsibility to protect and restore the natural world.
One of the highlights of the event was the Youth Art Challenge, where participants were invited to create artworks inspired by the theme “Squash and Nature.” The challenge aimed to inspire young minds to reflect on the interconnectedness between sports and the environment. Entrants were also introduced to educational posters emphasizing the importance of conservation efforts.
The judging panel for the Youth Art Challenge included Brigitta Kijono, Vice President of the Southeast Asian Squash Federation, and renowned local artist Pagamas Sawatdee. The winners of the challenge were Keerti Pradhaa Junivar Bala from Malaysia, Wanvisa Summapituk, and Waritsara Chujit, both from Thailand.
Aysah Dalida, from the Southeast Asia Squash Federation Secretariat, noted the impact of the initiative: “This initiative adds a unique energy to the championships. It allows young players and fans to express their connection to both squash and nature through art. It’s a creative and fun way to inspire the next generation to care for our planet.”
Raquibul Amin, Head of Programme Management for IUCN Asia, expressed his appreciation for the partnership with the Thailand Squash Rackets Association and Southeast Asian Squash Federation. He also provided gifts to the art challenge participants and spoke about squash’s responsibility to advocate for environmental sustainability at the post-event dinner.
Looking ahead, World Squash plans to extend the Sports for Nature initiative by rolling out similar challenges at youth-focused tournaments in other regions, continuing to foster a generation of athletes who are passionate about both their sport and the environment.
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