By The Haitian Tribune Staff
Story Published on August 19, 2024 at 09;00 AM ET
A Festival of Youth and Dignity in Les Cayes
In a remarkable show of community spirit and resilience, the Municipality of Les Cayes in the South of Haiti organized a sports activity during the summer, coinciding with the city’s “Fête Patronale” celebration. This initiative, driven by a desire to restore the city’s dignity and bring together the youth, saw the participation of several local teams in a soccer tournament. The festival’s highlight was undoubtedly the final match of the “Anbyans Notredam Sou Waf Okay” tournament, where the AFKF Youth team emerged as champions.
The Mayor’s Praise and the Spirit of Competition
The event saw the enthusiastic involvement of the town’s mayor, Mrs. Daphne France, who took to the stage to commend all the teams participating in the league championship. She singled out the two finalists, AFKF Youth and L’AJPE, for their outstanding performances. The mayor’s speech emphasized the importance of youth engagement in sports to foster community pride and unity, especially in challenging times.
A Thrilling Match Despite the Challenges
Despite the ongoing challenges in Haiti, the AFKF youth of Les Cayes brought joy and excitement to the entire population with their spirited participation in the tournament. The final match was a nail-biting affair that went into overtime, showcasing the determination and skill of both teams. The game ultimately went to a penalty shootout, where the AFKF Youth team clinched a hard-fought victory over L’AJPE, another commendable youth soccer team. The talented Jonas Durandisse led the team to victory.
A Symbolic Victory for the Youth of Les Cayes
After the event, the AFKF Youth team was symbolically crowned champions, receiving their trophy to the crowd’s delight. The atmosphere was electric, with spectators cheering and celebrating the victory, showing the deep connection between the community and its youth. The tournament not only provided entertainment but also served as a reminder of the potential and resilience of Haiti’s younger generation.
A Celebration of Hope and Resilience
The tournament and its outcome, serving as a significant morale booster for Les Cayes, highlighted the unifying power of sports and the importance of supporting youth initiatives. The AFKF Youth team and their supporters and organizers received well-deserved congratulations. As the celebrations continued, the community expressed their hopes for the team’s continued success and more opportunities to uplift and empower the youth through sports.
This event is a testament to Les Cayes’s enduring spirit and the importance of providing platforms for the youth to shine, even in adversity. The AFKF Youth team’s victory is not just a triumph on the soccer field but a symbol of hope for a brighter future for the entire region.
The Haitian Tribune local journalists have corroborated this story | Photo Credit: AFKF