A panel that includes MLS executives and soccer industry officials is set for the upcoming "Kickin’ It 100" forum on Monday, Feb. 22 as part of Major League Soccer's partnership with the National Coalition of 100 Black Women, Incorporated (NCBW).
During the forum, middle and high school Black girls who are interested in soccer will have the opportunity to ask the panelists questions about their professional pathway and current roles.
In September, MLS announced a partnership with the National Coalition of 100 Black Women, a non-profit volunteer organization for Black women. In addition to a financial commitment, MLS will collaborate with NCBW to develop long-term programming with a focus on workforce and leadership development and health and wellness initiatives.
The partnership’s primary focus is to provide opportunities through soccer for Black girls and women. NCBW believes the collaboration will improve health through soccer; foster positive experiences, positive self-perception and self-respect; encourage excellence in education; provide opportunities for exposure and create future leaders.
“We are so excited about our partnership with Major League Soccer," NCBW national president Virginia W. Harris said in a release. "We have more than 3,300 members in 61 chapters around the country that understand the power of collaboration. This wonderful opportunity will allow us to continue our mission of touching the lives and hearts of those we serve when it comes to health, education and economic empowerment."
Goals of the partnership include:
- Expose girls (middle and high school) to life opportunities through soccer. Sessions should integrate health, education, leadership and opportunities to pursue lifelong goals.
- Partner with local soccer coaches (middle school to college) and integrate discussions on the steps to leveraging soccer to increase participation by Black girls, improve health, provide educational opportunities and pursue lifelong goals.
