BIGGER AND BETTER:Yap Kim Hock launches badminton charity programme to benefit 88 underprivileged childrenMICHAEL’S Badminton Academy (MBA) recently launched the Hope for Change Badminton Charity Programme.Supported by ECM Libra Foundation, the event was officiated by former national player Yap Kim Hock, who is the 2012 Hope for Change ambassador.In its second year running, the programme will see 88 underprivileged children from House of Joy, Rumah Hope, Rumah Kebajikan At-Taqwa, Rumah Charis and Pure Life Society, undergo a 10-month badminton training workshop at Michael’s Badminton Academy (MBA).“MBA has always been community-driven, and Hope for Change is our way of giving back to the community by empowering these underprivileged children through sports.“When we started the programme last year, we envisioned a sustainable programme that provides a platform for underprivileged children to discover their interest and talent on the badminton court,” said K.C. Lee, director of Michael’s Badminton Academy & Sports Sdn Bhd.Describing this year’s Hope for Change as bigger and more exciting, Lee said there has been an increase in the number of students this year. Last year, 53 children graduated from the programme.“For us here at MBA, badminton is more than just a sport. It teaches core skills like teamwork, respect, resilience and discipline that we hope to instill in the children.“This year, we are honoured to have former national player Yap Kim Hock as our 2012 Hope for Change ambassador.”At the launch, Kim Hock engaged the children in conversations on their interest in badminton and their progress in training thus far.“Hope for Change uses badminton as a means to get the best out these children for a better future, and as a strong believer in this cause, I am here to support MBA in this initiative and to encourage the children,” said Kim Hock.

“We are all here because we’re serious about investing in their future.”

In addition to badminton training, Hope for Change also has field trips and extracurricular activities to provide the children with a fun and holistic experience.

Last year’s activities included a meet and greet session with Lee Chong Wei, a team building session by Leaderonomics, a day-out to the International Hope for Children’s Day Carnival and watching a badminton tournament.