The Muddy Delight of Football: Little Moments, Big Joy.
In the rain-drenched fields of Mbinudita, East Sumba, football speaks a universal language—it is played barefoot in the mud with an old deflated ball.
In front of the Mbinudita school, constructed at the peak of the Covid-19 pandemic in 2020-2021, children from this highly rural area of East Sumba exemplify life’s simplest joys. They play barefoot in the mud with a worn-out ball under the rain, their laughter and energy proving truly contagious.
These children, members of the school community that Fair Future helped establish, demonstrate that happiness doesn’t require ideal circumstances. Despite lacking shoes, a proper field, or goalposts—what shines through is sheer joy, camaraderie and an unwavering passion for the universal game of football.
Unearthed from a collection of 160,000 images, these ten photographs encapsulate moments brimming with resilience and connection. They celebrate childhood, community spirit, and play’s transformative power. Allow these photos to whisk you away to a world where muddy fields and rainy skies set the stage for unforgettable memories.
We cordially invite all captivated by this story to explore our photo gallery, witness this extraordinary effort, and further engage with our mission through our Instagram account.
Alex Wettstein – Fair Future Foundation medico-social camp in East Sumba – Rumah Kambera, Lambanapu – the 5th of December 2024
