The "Sport for Change - How sport can bring people together, create communities, and impact lives" panel discussion was held at Dare House, featuring inspiring conversations about the role of sport in building better communities. Moderated by well-known sports broadcaster and commentator John Dykes, the panel featured Paul Lambert, 1997 UEFA Champions League Winner, Former Professional Footballer and Manager; Dr Suresh Letchmanan, Managing Director of Borussia Dortmund Asia Pacific; Adam Krayem, Pathways Technical Director, Wynnum Wolves FC; and Sajitha Rajeev, Head – Projects, AMM Foundation.

The discussion explored how sports can break barriers, create connections, and bring positive changes to people`s lives. It also highlighted the role of the AMM Foundation, the corporate social responsibility arm of the Murugappa Group, in promoting these values through programmes like the Murugappa Youth Football Academy (MYFA).

This panel discussion is part of a unique cultural exchange between the youth teams of Wynnum Wolves FC from Australia and MYFA. As part of their visit, the Wynnum Wolves` young players are training and competing with MYFA`s teams, participating in three practice matches and joint training sessions. This collaboration celebrates how football fosters friendships, promotes mutual respect, and builds connections that transcend borders.

The initiative was established in 2015 with the vision of using football as a tool for social change. Aimed at channelling the energy of underprivileged children, MYFA focuses on instilling values such as discipline, teamwork, and resilience through structured football training led by licensed coaches. What began as a grassroots program for select schools in Chennai has grown into a platform that nurtures talent while fostering behavioural and life skills development, with 600 boys benefiting so far. With and opportunities to compete in national and international tournaments and support from global partners like Borussia Dortmund (BVB), MYFA not only helps children excel on the field but also equips them with the tools to build brighter futures.

The speakers shared their experiences and thoughts on how sport creates lasting impacts, both on and off the field.

Paul Lambert, 1997 UEFA Champions League winner, Former Professional Footballer and Manager, reflecting on his journey, spoke about the unity sport can create:
"Sport has an amazing ability to inspire and unite people. Programmes like the Murugappa Youth Football Academy, supported by the AMM Foundation, are fantastic examples of how football can give young people opportunities to grow, dream big, and succeed."

Dr Suresh Letchmanan, Managing Director of Borussia Dortmund Asia Pacific, a key figure e in the club`s outreach in Asia, emphasised football`s role as a universal connector:
"Football is a language that connects people across the world. It`s about creating shared experiences and opportunities that inspire communities to work together and achieve more." 

Adam Krayem, Pathways Technical Director, Wynnum Wolves FC, drawing on his experience in football coaching, stressed the importance of collaboration:

"Sport teaches teamwork, discipline, and leadership. These are qualities that go beyond the game and help build stronger individuals and communities." 

Sajitha Rajeev, Head – Projects, AMM Foundation, speaking from the Foundation`s perspective, added:
"At the AMM Foundation, we believe that sport is a powerful tool to transform lives. Through the Murugappa Youth Football Academy, we aim to provide children with the skills, values, and opportunities they need to overcome challenges and build a brighter future."

John Dykes, Broadcaster and Commentator, as moderator, summed up the essence of the discussion:
"Sport is not just about competition — it`s a platform for change, bringing people together and creating pathways to a better future. This discussion has truly highlighted the potential sport has to make a difference."

The AMM Foundation, through the Murugappa Youth Football Academy, continues to prove how sport can make a difference. By offering structured football training and mentoring to children from disadvantaged backgrounds, the academy gives them the tools to pursue their dreams and develop important life skills.

This panel discussion also highlighted the Murugappa Group`s commitment to making a positive impact through initiatives that combine social responsibility with the love of sport.

About the speakers

Paul Lambert

Paul Lambert, born on August 7, 1969, in Glasgow, Scotland, is a former professional footballer and manager. A UEFA Champions League winner with Borussia Dortmund in 1997, he became the first British player to win the title with a non-British club. Lambert also captained Celtic to multiple Scottish Premier League titles and earned 40 caps for Scotland, representing his country at the 1998 FIFA World Cup. After retiring, he transitioned to management, leading Norwich City to consecutive Premier League promotions and managing clubs like Aston Villa and Stoke City, earning recognition as one of Scotland`s most respected football figures.

Dr Suresh Letchmanan

Suresh Letchmanan is the Managing Director of Borussia Dortmund Asia Pacific, leading the club`s growth and presence across the region. With expxpertise in sports marketing and business development, he has been instrumental in building partnerships, engaging fans, and expanding BVB`s brand in Asia.

Adam Krayem

Adam Krayem is a former Wynnum youth player who has turned his passion for football into a fulltime coaching role at the club. A qualified C Licence coach who is now undertaking his B Licence course, Adam heads up the club`s Pathways development program which underpins the Academy Level teams from 8s to 13s. He also the technical lead of the club`s successful Wolf Cubs program for 3s to 7s, and in 2025 will co-ordinate all the MiniRoos teams and their volunteer coaches.

Sajitha Rajeev

Sajitha Rajeev is an expert in the development sector who has over 22 years of experience. In her 14 years at the AMM Foundation, she has headed diverse projects across the education, healthcare, environment and sport verticals. Rajeev has played an important role in the Murugappa Youth Football Academy since its inception.

John Dykes

John Dykes is a renowned sports broadcaster and presenter, best known for his work covering football across Asia and beyond. With a career spanning decades, he has become a familiar face as the host of Premier League broadcasts, delivering expert analysis and engaging interviews. Dykes is celebrated for his deep knowledge of the game, charismatic presence, and ability to connect with football fans worldwide.