Wild Kids

In a corner of Madagascar that was lost among the dusty roads of Ivato, there is a correctional facility. However, this place is not one where hope has gone to die; it is a haven of hope and some relief, managed by the French NGO 'Grandir Dignement'. Here, young souls engulfed in pain and remorse find comfort and a new path through the transformative power of soccer.

For the child soldiers and boy offenders, locked away behind those grey walls, it offers a second chance at life. Soccer becomes their language, the window through which feelings that are too big to fit into words are set out. Each step, each kick of the ball is a cry for hope, an act of rebellion against an unjust fate.

Guided by the NGO educators, these boys learn that life does not stop with past experiences and that a bright future can be theirs. There's a fear of not measuring up, of failing and being disappointed once more. But somewhere, deep inside, a flicker of hope remains, fanned by the support and love of those who believe in them.

And when the moment of release finally comes, these children walk out of the institution not only with a second chance but with hearts full of hope and courage to face the future. These boys, thanks to the NGO 'Grandir Dignement' and the transforming power of soccer, learn that it does not matter where you come from but where you are going, and the path of these kids is illuminated by the light of hope and regained dignity.