From Refugee Camp to Empowerment: Scaling Inclusive, Low-Barrier Sports in Iraq
Jakob Fuglsang is the founder and mission leader of Sport X, a Danish non-profit using sport to promote inclusion, health, and empowerment in vulnerable communities worldwide, and Linguista Education that is the leading Danish school and education provider for refugees in Denmark. Drawing on years of experience leading projects in conflict-affected areas such as primarily Iraq but also Ukraine, Lebanon, and Syria, Jakob combines a background in sports coaching and humanitarian work. His leadership focuses on building resilience, community, and hope through low-barrier, trauma-informed physical activity. Under his guidance, Sport X has grown into a global movement connecting volunteers, youth, and local partners through the unifying power of sport.
This lightning talk will present a powerful, concise story from Sport X’s work in Iraq, where low-barrier, inclusive sport has become a catalyst for youth resilience and recovery after conflict. With minimal equipment and focus on physical and mental health, young girls from a refugee camp in Iraq gain confidence, stability, and a renewed sense of belonging to a community - Sport X. The talk will demonstrate how small, community-driven interventions can create significant psychosocial impact and show how this model can be scaled with limited resources. Through real examples from the field, participants will see how movement, routine, and connection can spark healing and empowerment even in the most challenging environments.
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