Street Child FIFA World Cup 2022 aims to change perceptions

In about a month’s time, Qatar will host the FIFA World Cup. Last weekend Qatar hosted the street children's world cup.

Among the participants was Saldock John who hails from Tanzania and also featured in the first edition in 2010.

"Through this Street Kids World Cup, I hope to see a change in these young people, that they become leaders in their communities. They have to believe in themselves and believe that they are somebody. They also have to believe that no matter what others think of them, they just have to persevere to achieve their dreams," said Saldock.

Like these young Ugandans who played against the Brazilian favelas team, they are also hoping for a change in their lives.

Saldock John got off the streets and became an entrepreneur in his home in Tanzania through his participation in the tournament.

"Football means everything to me because it was the first thing that brought me to the forefront and showed others how worthy I am and how important I am. It gave them confidence in me, belief in me, and the opportunity to show my talent and value in the community," said Saldock.

Children from all over the world are competing in four competitions, from Sudan to Bujumbura, from India to Palestine, and even from the United States.

According to UNICEF, there are almost 350 million children living in extreme poverty in the world.

"When these young people put on their national jersey, when they hear their anthem, when they wave their flags, we are incredibly proud of them. Their whole country is incredibly proud of them. In addition, it's about getting the world on the side of these street kids. 

Once they see them differently, once they see them as heroes, they are ready to change the world for them.No one disagrees with what them want in the world: birth registration, access to education, protection from violence, and gender equality. 

Everyone agrees that these children should have that. So everyone is on their side," said John Wroe, the CEO of Street Child World Cup.

The 2022 edition of this street children's world cup was won by Brazil after defeating Colombia.