Childrens Charity, India
by Daisie Haywood – MCC Foundation Coaching Scholar
In April, I had the incredible opportunity to travel to Mumbai for a coaching trip, an experience that will stay with me for a long time.
From the moment I arrived, Mumbai completely captivated me. The city is a fascinating mix of energy, ambition and culture. Everywhere I looked, there was something happening. It was impossible not to be inspired by the energy of the people and the pace of life.
The purpose of my visit was to deliver coaching sessions and I was fortunate to work with a fantastic group of girls who were eager to learn, grow and challenge themselves. What stood out most was the level of engagement and enthusiasm. The conversations were insightful, the questions were thoughtful and the willingness to embrace new ideas made every session rewarding.
While in Mumbai, I got to work with the OSCAR Foundation and visit the OSCAR community. Visiting the community was my favourite part of the trip. I got to connect with a lot of the young girls and the rest of the children when we played cricket outside. The whole community watched as we played! It felt so incredible to be apart of. I have learnt a lot from them as they have from me.
A big mention to our guide Kumar Rathod. Kumar is the sweetest person I have ever met, always full of joy and wanting to spread it to everyone. He always has a smile on his face. His story is really captivating and shows how much the OSCAR Foundation really strives to aid all those children in the community. Read Kumar’s inspiring story. From the week we spent in Mumbai, Kumar has taught me a lot. To be more grateful for the things we have and to be respectful. Thank you Kumar for helping me with that.
One of the things I love most about coaching is that it is never a one-way process. While I was there to share knowledge and experience, I found myself learning just as much from the people I met. Different perspectives, unique challenges and new ways of thinking. Working with The OSCAR Foundation and The Right Pitch is what I loved about being in Mumbai.
Beyond the coaching itself, the trip gave me the chance to experience the culture and hospitality that Mumbai is famous for. The warmth and generosity of everyone I met made me feel incredibly welcome. Whether it was sharing stories over a meal, exploring the city or simply connecting between sessions.
The trip reinforced the universal nature of personal and professional development. Regardless of where we come from, we share many of the same aspirations, to grow, to perform at their best and to make the most of every opportunity.
As I reflect on my time in Mumbai, I am filled with gratitude. Gratitude for the opportunity to coach, for the connections I made and for the lessons I learned along the way. It was more than just a work trip; it was an experience that broadened my perspective and reminded me why I am so passionate about what I do.
Mumbai exceeded every expectation, and I left with wonderful memories, new friendships and a renewed sense of purpose. I look forward to returning one day and continuing the conversations that began there.
“It was a pleasure to include Daisie in the MCC Foundation trip to Mumbai. Watching her grow in confidence over the course of the trip was truly rewarding and fantastic to see her return to the UK eager to share all that she had learned with others.” Angus Berry, Chief Executive, MCC Foundation.
Until then, thank you to the MCC Foundation and Barclays Bank, for an unforgettable experience. I also want to thank some very special people for making this happen for me, Angus Berry, Sarah Fane, Izzy Gurney and Vicky Lowe and Lucinda Sowerbutts and Jo Dunne for making me feel so welcome.
Learn more about OSCAR’s Girls Cricket programme.
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