Sport has an undeniable power to transform lives, and the AME – Friends of Hope project is a testament to this reality.
Born in mid-2020 in Criciúma, Santa Catarina, the project began as a humble Jiu-Jitsu workshop in a municipal public school.
The initial objective was clear and ambitious: to combat school dropout and offer students a playful, educational, and motivating tool through Jiu-Jitsu.
More than Fights, a School of Values
The positive impact of the initiative was so remarkable that, in just 12 months, the workshop expanded to serve children in the community.
The practice of Jiu-Jitsu proved to be much more than a physical activity; it became a path to discipline, respect, focus, and the construction of essential values.
The AME project, supported by SEDA College, demonstrates how sport can be an agent of social change, shaping not only athletes, but conscious and engaged citizens.
Currently, AME serves around 60 children, providing them with a safe and stimulating environment.
To participate, the young athletes must meet basic requirements, such as maintaining school attendance, not having infectious diseases, and presenting formal authorization from their guardians.
Classes take place five times a week, at three different times, ensuring accessibility and flexibility for families.
The project operates in a rented space and has a fundamental support network of collaborators and supporters who believe in its transformative purpose.
From the Criciúma Mat to the ADCC Youth World Championship in Poland
Jiu-Jitsu, through AME, has changed lives. Children who were previously unmotivated now exhibit discipline, high self-esteem, and new dreams.
Sports contribute significantly to physical, emotional, and social development, improve behavior, encourage respect on and off the mat, and strengthen ties with school and family.
Now, the AME – Friends of Hope project is taking a giant step in its journey: participation in the ADCC Youth World Championship, which will be held in Poland in September 2026.
This is a milestone that represents the culmination of much effort, hard training, and tireless dedication from the athletes and their families. By supporting initiatives like this, SEDA College reinforces its commitment to the education and holistic development of young talents.
Taking these athletes to the ADCC Youth World Championship is not just a competitive opportunity; it is a showcase for the transformative power of teamwork and resilience.
It is about giving visibility to stories that deserve to be told, showing what they are capable of when they receive the right direction and support. Participation in the ADCC Youth World Championship is proof that, with dedication and support, it is possible to go much further.
SEDA College and the Commitment to Social Transformation
SEDA College has a history of supporting social projects and Jiu-Jitsu athletes, recognizing the sport as a powerful educational tool.
The AME – Friends of Hope project, with the support of SEDA College, remains steadfast in its mission to build opportunities through sport, proving that, with the right guidance, any child can go very far and achieve their biggest dreams.
