- Aims to empower underprivileged children
YKK Holding Asia Ltd. (YHA), the regional headquarters of the global fastening products manufacturer, together with YKK Lanka Ltd., recently announced the return of the YKK ASAO Kids’ Football Clinic (YKK AKFC) for its third edition.
Held in partnership with the Real Madrid Foundation (RMF), this meaningful Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiative uses football as a platform to support the physical and emotional development of underprivileged children, providing them with essential life skills and unforgettable experiences.
The event is scheduled to take place from 27-29 August at the Race Course Ground in Colombo, with the support of the Football Federation of Sri Lanka and the Ministry of Sports and Youth Affairs.
Since its launch in 2007, the YKK AKFC programme has reached children in over 12 countries across Asia, including Bangladesh, Cambodia, India, Indonesia, Malaysia, Myanmar, Pakistan, the Philippines, Singapore, Sri Lanka, Thailand, and Vietnam.
With a strong focus on bringing joy and memorable learning experiences through football, the programme has positively impacted over 7,500 underprivileged children to date.
This year, the clinic will welcome approximately 300 children from orphanages and underserved communities, alongside over 30 Sri Lankan football coaches.
These coaches will participate in exclusive training sessions led by RMF professionals, where they will learn world-class coaching methodologies and techniques. The sessions will offer hands-on experience, enabling local coaches to assist and collaborate with the RMF team throughout the clinic.
All participating children will receive a complete football kit, including a jersey, shorts, socks, boots, a medal, and a certificate of participation, along with exclusive souvenirs.
As part of YKK’s ongoing commitment to community development, all footballs and training equipment used during the clinic will be donated to local schools and non-profit organisations.
“This programme is not just about football; it’s about creating opportunities and building connections,” said YHA President Kazuto Daimon.
“It gives children, especially those with limited access to sports, a chance to play, learn, and grow. Through the game, they develop teamwork, confidence, and resilience – skills that benefit them far beyond the field. At the same time, the clinic brings people together, strengthening community ties and fostering a spirit of unity,” he added.
In addition to supporting children, the clinic will also provide valuable professional development opportunities for local Sri Lankan coaches. By learning and applying the RMF’s proven training methodology, they will be better equipped to nurture and inspire the next generation of football players in Sri Lanka.
As a member of the YKK Group, which operates in more than 70 nations and regions with over 46,000 employees, YHA and YKK Lanka remain dedicated to creating positive social impact through sustainable and meaningful community engagement across the region.