In a groundbreaking initiative focused on mental health and wellbeing, sporting legends gathered at the Laureus Sport for Good Mental Health & Wellbeing Forum in Hong Kong. Hosted by The Hong Kong Jockey Club Charities Trust, this multi-day event brought together global athletes, mental health experts, and community stakeholders to explore the vital role of sport in fostering resilience and confidence in young people. The Forum exemplifies the growing commitment to the global goals of sustainability, environmental protection, and social justice, with an emphasis on the positive impact sport can have on mental health.
The event, held from February 20 to February 23, 2025, was part of Laureus’ ongoing Model City Hong Kong programme. Since its inception in 2020, this programme has aimed to support local organisations in addressing mental health and wellbeing challenges through the power of sport. With mental health becoming an increasingly urgent issue globally, initiatives like this Forum highlight the crucial intersection of physical activity, mental health, and social justice in the broader context of global goals.
Statistics underscore the need for such initiatives. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), mental health disorders are the leading cause of disability worldwide, affecting more than 1 in 10 people. In Hong Kong, one in seven adults experiences a mental health issue, underscoring the importance of community-driven efforts to tackle these challenges. The Global Society’s increasing focus on mental health aligns with SDG 3, Good Health and Wellbeing, by striving for better access to mental health care, particularly in underserved communities.
The Forum featured notable athletes, including Chinese Olympic speed skating champion Yang Yang, Australian cricket icon Steve Waugh, and eight-time world squash champion Nicol David. These figures, along with Laureus Ambassador Victoria Pendleton and former football manager Sean Dyche, engaged in discussions highlighting the need for resilience-building strategies for young people through sport. This engagement points to the importance of economic equality and access to opportunities, in line with SDG 10 - Reduced Inequalities, as many young people across the world lack the resources to access these empowering activities.
Legends of sport: Champions of social justice and activism
Throughout history, many legends of sport have used their platform to drive social change, with some athletes emerging as powerful advocates for social justice and human rights. These athletes not only excelled in their respective sports but also used their visibility to address pressing issues in society.
One such example is Muhammad Ali, the legendary boxer who became a global icon not only for his sporting achievements but for his activism, especially during the civil rights movement in the United States. Ali's refusal to be drafted into the Vietnam War based on his religious and political beliefs made him a symbol of resistance against injustice. His stance on racial equality and his vocal support for the Black community were instrumental in raising awareness about social and racial inequalities.
Another iconic figure is Colin Kaepernick, the former American football quarterback whose protest against racial inequality and police brutality by kneeling during the national anthem sparked a global movement. Kaepernick's decision to use his platform for social justice in the face of public backlash demonstrates how athletes can leverage their fame to advocate for systemic change, aligning with SDG 16—Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions.
In tennis, Venus and Serena Williams have been advocates for gender equality and equal pay in sport. Their efforts to combat sexism in tennis have helped to pave the way for greater recognition of female athletes and fairer financial compensation, echoing the importance of gender equality under SDG 5.
Real-world examples demonstrate the significant role sport plays in mental health. Laureus’ Model City programme, operating since 2020, uses sport to support local organisations tackling mental health issues in Hong Kong. Through mentorship, physical activity, and leadership training, these programmes empower young people to build confidence, reduce anxiety, and manage stress. The collaboration between athletes and mental health experts further strengthens the impact of this initiative, creating a powerful example of how peace and justice—in the form of mental health and wellbeing—can be fostered through social engagement and community initiatives.
The impact extends beyond Hong Kong. Globally, Laureus’ Sport for Good initiative has reached over six million young people in more than 40 countries, demonstrating the scalability and potential for long-term success in using sport as a tool for mental health. Laureus Ambassador and four-time Olympic swimmer Siobhan Haughey joined the Forum’s discussions, offering insights into the transformative potential of sport, both in terms of individual development and collective community resilience.
A call for continued global collaboration
As the world faces complex challenges related to climate action, social justice, and economic equality, initiatives like the Laureus Forum highlight the importance of global collaboration. The Global Society must work together to leverage sport as a tool for good, not just for physical health but also for mental health, aligning with SDG 17 - Partnerships for the Goals. This Forum demonstrated the power of collective action, with over 1,000 participants, including athletes, changemakers, and young people, gathered to share knowledge, experiences, and strategies for fostering mental wellbeing.
The Forum’s discussions also revolved around strengthening justice and strong institutions, emphasising how policies and organisations can support the mental wellbeing of young people through accessible sports programmes. The partnership between the Hong Kong Elite Athletes' Association and Laureus exemplifies how sporting institutions can work in tandem with local communities to deliver on these critical goals.
Looking forward, the positive outcomes of the Forum signal a brighter future for the intersection of sport, mental health, and sustainable development. As this event demonstrates, sport for good is not merely a vehicle for physical fitness—it is also a powerful catalyst for change in the mental health and wellbeing sector. By continuing to build on this momentum, both at local and global levels, the global goals can become more than just a framework—they can become a reality for millions of young people around the world.
As the momentum grows, we must also focus on amplifying the role of science and evidence-based approaches to mental health interventions. Future initiatives like this Forum pave the way for innovative solutions to the challenges of our time, creating peace and justice in every community.
The Laureus Sport for Good Mental Health & Wellbeing Forum proves that sports legends, athletes, and mental health professionals, when united, can create world-changing solutions that drive the SDGs forward and transform lives.
To learn more about the intersection of sport, mental health, and sustainability, explore additional information on global initiatives like Laureus Sport for Good, and how these efforts contribute to achieving the SDGs for a more equitable future.