I have heard so much about the Global Goals World Cup and have often during various UN events seen the Global Goals ball being handed-over as symbol of the inter-connectivity of the 17 SDGs and how by building partnerships, we can together achieve them by 2030. So, to be here today and have the opportunity to witness the ball in play is a very special day. 

Thank you for the opportunity to be a part of this important sporting event. This event combines my personal affection for sports and my strong engagement in Global Goal number five – gender equality, including women’s sexual and reproductive health and rights.

With 24 teams made up of remarkable women from all over the world, who are committed to making the world a better place, we will leverage the power of sport to raise awareness of the SDGs. Today, they will form teams that represent the Global Goal that they are dedicated to achieving. 

“Sport has the power to change the world,” Nelson Mandela said. He said; “It has the power to inspire. It has the power to unite people in a way that little else does. It speaks to youth in a language they understand”.

Like sport. Women and girls have the power to change the world. Women and Girls matter for each and every one of the 17 SDGs – whether it is about women’s contribution to peace, as agents of economic growth or in education and health.

The best way for the world to prosper is to ensure that girls and women have the freedom, power and knowledge to make decisions affecting their own lives and those of their families and communities.

Goal five provides us with an important platform. We cannot achieve real progress, if half the population is left behind and You cannot win a match, if half of the team don’t have access to the pitch!”

I have the honour today to nominate the last player for the SDG 5 Gender Equality Dream Team - [Pause] -

Assmaah Helal. Among the many good reasons for nominating Assmaah, I have time to only highlight a few.

Firstly, Assmah’s organisation uses sport to engage, connect and prepare young people for a future of fulfilment, especially young girls in making their own decisions and participating actively in society.

Secondly, Asmaah’s work has proven that sports are an important tool for young refugees in their efforts to integrate into their host communities.

Thirdly, Assmaah has strived to break down stereotypes and barriers that limit women and girls, and she has promoted sport as a tool for positive youth development and has shown that sport is indeed inclusive and diverse.

And this is exactly what the Global Goals World Cup initiative stands for.

Have a great game!