Taking Centre-Pitch with our CEO at Bradford City Football Club

By Ridwana Wallace-Laher.

Saturday marked a significant moment at Bradford City AFC as I took the stage pitch-side, addressing the 16,000+ crowd as part of the #GreenFootballWeekend. This event not only showcased the power of sports in fostering environmental awareness but also highlighted the club's commitment to community service.

I passionately emphasised the importance of sustainability in football and beyond. The audience listened as I mentioned the club's efforts to reduce its carbon footprint and promote eco-friendly practices. I’m hoping my words resonated with fans, players, and staff alike, inspiring a collective commitment to making a positive impact on the environment.

The focal point of the day extended beyond the football field for first team player Jamie Walker and extended out into the community through the club's community kitchen initiative at the City Hub. Addressing the most vulnerable members of society, this initiative not only provides nourishment but also serves as a beacon of hope and solidarity.

The community kitchen, spearheaded by Penny Appeal, Bradford City AFC and the Bradford City FC Community Foundation alongside a dedicated team of volunteers, is on a mission to eliminate food wastage by redistributing surplus food to those in need. This dual-purpose initiative not only tackles hunger but also addresses the critical issue of food waste, aligning seamlessly with the principles of sustainability and community welfare.

It has become evident that BFD City Football Club's commitment to social responsibility is as strong as its dedication to the game. The Community Kitchen has become a hub of activity, fostering a sense of community among volunteers and recipients alike.

The Green Football Weekend has truly become a catalyst for positive change in the BFD City community. The synergy between my pitch-side address and the community kitchen initiative exemplifies the transformative power that sports, combined with social and environmental responsibility, can have on society.

BFD City Football Club stands as a shining beacon of inspiration for other sports organisations and communities worldwide. Today's events will undoubtedly leave a lasting impact, fostering a legacy of sustainable practices, community support, and a sense of shared responsibility.