**Community partner:** Laureus Sport For Good Italia ETS 

**Social issues:** Community Cohesion – At Risk Youth 

**Ambassadors:** Shavon Shields, Giampaolo Ricci, Ousmane Diop 

**Main Life Skills:** Psychological well-being, social integration, education, and gender equality. 

**About the program:** 

Now entering its fifth year, the partnership between EA7 Emporio Armani Milan and Laureus Sport for Good Italia ETS creates new experiences for young people to meet and interact with first-team team players, including Shavon Shields, Giampaolo Ricci, and Ousmane Diop, who serve as program ambassadors. These athletes mentor and inspire the younger generation, not only through shared on-court experiences but also by embodying resilience, teamwork, and discipline – values central to Laureus’s mission.  

Laureus Sport for Good Italia ETS is a proud part of the international Laureus movement, inspired by Nelson Mandela’s vision of “using the power of sport to end violence, discrimination, and disadvantage.” Since 2005, Laureus Italia has operated in Milan’s most underserved areas, creating opportunities for young people aged between five and 25 to develop life skills, foster community connections, and overcome social challenges through sports. With a focus on psychological well-being, social integration, education, and gender equality, the program uses sport as a powerful tool for personal and community growth.  

Milan’s One Team program focuses on engaging secondary school students (aged 12-13) from the suburban area of **Gratosoglio** (south of Milan). In this area there is a lack of safe relationship opportunities. It is an area full of different cultural backgrounds at risk of delinquency or who live in situations of social, cultural and economic distress. The program addresses the shortage of accessible, age-appropriate sports and educational activities. Those involved in the program participate in basketball and life-skills clinics led by Milan’s coaches and supported by a Laureus sports psychologist, creating a structured environment where teamwork, self-confidence, and social awareness are nurtured.  

Through this evolving program, Milan and Laureus are committed to providing the city’s underserved youth with meaningful experiences that enhance their educational journey and strengthen their connection to the community. This year, Laureus aims to reach even more young people, while effectively communicating the program’s impact across Milan, illustrating the power of sport to uplift and unite. 