United Arab Emirates (UAE) – On May 9-13th, 2016 O Street International successfully hosted the second phase of its Sports & Wellness Diplomacy program in the Abu Dhabi and Dubai through a grant from U.S. Embassy Abu Dhabi. During our week-long programming, an O Street International team of four elite athletes conducted events and clinics with youth and sport coaches of UAE focusing on wellness, agility, karate and basketball, bringing the total number of participants to 650!
For nearly 50 years, the U.S. and UAE relationship has continued to grow in all areas, especially in the areas of sports, health, culture and social issues. O Street International is thrilled to be a key contributor of this process, advocating and encouraging further engagement between the people of the U.S. and UAE. “In every country and culture, sports teach kids vital lessons in teamwork and leadership, and helps them develop better self-esteem. Through their innovative sports exchanges and programs with Emirati and American athletes, O Street International is building new bridges between the U.S. and UAE, and enhancing understanding,” said UAE Ambassador to the US Yousef Al Otaiba. “I applaud O Street International for its commitment and tireless efforts.”
Building upon our well-received engagement and exchange in 2014, O Street International continues the tradition of sports diplomacy and is paving the way for continuous programming on Sports & Wellness in the UAE as well as in other areas of interest. We are excited to continue growing the relationship between O Street International and the people of the UAE for years to come.
Through mutual respect and engagement, the U.S. and UAE have supported awareness and the strengthening of relations through educational outreach and exchanges such as this Sports & Wellness Diplomacy program. O Street International fully appreciates the tireless work conducted by our diplomatic community. We are honored to support the U.S. Department of State as it strives to build stronger relationships with the people of the UAE. We are also proud to have the support of the people of the UAE as we work toward building lasting relationships.
Founder and Board President of O Street International, Omari Faulkner, reflects on the significance of relationship building; “I have been fortunate over the past 10 years to contribute to the growth and development of sport culture in the United Arab Emirates. During my time on the ground in UAE, I have learned much more from UAE’s coaches, sport leaders and youth than I have taught. The UAE and U.S. have a history of collaboration and mutual respect, I look forward to continuing this framework within the sports community by further investment in Sports Exchange programs between our two nations.”
Leave A Comment