On March 6, 2025, Coral opened its doors at the D-Beirut headquarters to a gathering that was as much about celebrating remarkable athletic achievement as it was about nurturing hope and opportunity for Lebanon’s future. In a spirited tribute marking International Women’s Day, the company honored the Lebanon Under-16 National Football Team for their historic win at the West Asia Football Cup – a victory that stands as a beacon of resilience, teamwork and youthful determination. This was a powerful demonstration of how Coral empowers youth.
A Day of Purpose and Celebration
More than a ceremonial gathering, the event showcased Coral’s commitment to the community and a tangible reflection of its core values: sustainability, gender equality, and social responsibility. Set against the backdrop of International Women’s Day – a day dedicated to recognizing the strength and achievements of women – the warm atmosphere at Coral’s headquarters brought together distinguished guests, community leaders and proud supporters. Together, they celebrated a trophy-winning performance and the power of investing in young people and their dreams.
Voices of Inspiration
In his opening remarks, Coral General Manager and Board Member Mr. Antonio Yammine set a resonant tone for the day. He reminded everyone that the team’s victory surpasses the boundaries of sport: “Your victory is more than just a trophy,” he remarked. It’s a symbol of perseverance, teamwork and dedication. It shows that true sustainability is about empowering people and ensuring future generations have the confidence to succeed. Your win goes beyond the field, inspiring hope across Lebanon.”
“This event reflects Coral’s commitment to our community, celebrating achievements that align with our values of sustainability, gender equality, and social responsibility. Through our initiatives, we aim to make a lasting impact whether empowering women, advancing clean energy, or supporting education and sports,” he said, adding: “In excelling in a sport where women have long fought for recognition, you embody SDG 5: Gender Equality, demonstrating to young girls across the country that no challenge is too great.”
His heartfelt words drew a clear connection between athletic excellence and broader sustainable development goals. They reinforced Coral’s belief in empowering women, promoting quality education, and creating lasting opportunities for future generations – a message that resonated powerfully on International Women’s Day.
Coral Empowers Youth
The heart of the day was the clear message that Coral empowers youth. This commitment was evident in every moment – from the energetic parade welcoming the team to the engaging panel discussion moderated by Ms. Jennifer Nassar of USEK and the sincere congratulatory exchanges throughout the venue. Coral’s belief in nurturing talent and breaking long-standing barriers is a cornerstone in building a resilient society.
Dr. Maya Nehme, president of LRI and an inspiring leader in the NGO sector, said: “Our partnership with Coral demonstrates how corporations can actively contribute to environmental sustainability. This kind of initiatives show that sustainability is not just an option but a shared responsibility. Our presence here to celebrate the Football Team success showcase how businesses can encourage their community and inspire others to adopt similar practices. Together, we can create a more sustainable future for Lebanon. And there are so many ways to do that. Creativity in the private sector is abundant in this regard!”
Mr. Hachem Haidar, president of the Lebanese Football Association, thanked Coral and USEK for this initiative and for their support of Lebanese football. He underscored the importance of such concrete contributions in advancing the sport.
Bridging Sports and Education
A standout moment was Coral’s announcement that the Holy Spirit University of Kaslik (USEK) would be granting a one-year full scholarship to every member of the winning team. This transformative opportunity, aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal for Quality Education (SDG 4), represents an investment in both athletic talent and academic promise. It is a commitment to empower these young champions to excel in sports as well as in their academic and professional futures.
A Lasting Impact
Throughout the afternoon, a genuine sense of community and forward-thinking optimism prevailed. As the Lebanese Football Association’s President, Mr. Hashem Haidar, shared his insights on stage, the gathering underscored the collaborative spirit needed to nurture talent and promote growth. Coral’s celebration reminded everyone that progress is best achieved when we stand together – when sports, education and social responsibility merge to create opportunities for all.
The cheers and smiles from the event served as a poignant reminder that every victory, every step forward, is a win for the community. And as the day drew to a close with a joyful group photo and a warm buffet, the spirit of the event lingered –a testament to the power of unity and shared purpose. Coral’s celebration of the Lebanon Under-16 National Football Team is a celebration of hope, resilience and the belief that every young person has the potential to shine. This day has set the stage for a brighter tomorrow, where achievements on the field echo in every corner of our community.