FIRST Lady, Mrs. Arya Ali, continued to champion youth and community development with her recent donation of over $500,000 in sports gear to the Reliance Hustlers Sports Club from the Essequibo Coast.
The official handover took place on Saturday last at State House in Anna Regina, Region Two, where representatives of the club received the equipment.

The donation included a range of essential cricket gear such as bats, batting pads, helmets, gloves, and balls. These items will significantly enhance the club’s training programme, providing young athletes with the necessary resources to develop their skills and excel in the sport.
During the handing over, Mrs. Ali reiterated the importance of investing in community sports teams, emphasising that such initiatives play a vital role in shaping well-rounded individuals, fostering discipline, and instilling teamwork among youth.

She noted that sports not only contribute to individual physical and mental well-being but also serve as a catalyst for community and national development by uniting people and creating opportunities for young talents to thrive.
Representatives of the Reliance Hustlers Sports Club expressed gratitude for the donation, highlighting that it will go a long way in supporting their sports programme for youth development.

They noted that access to quality sports equipment will enable aspiring young cricketers to train more effectively and participate in competitive tournaments with the correct gears.
The First Lady’s ongoing commitment to youth and sports development aligns with national efforts to promote grassroots participation in athletics, recognising sports as a tool for empowerment and positive social change.