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The event in association with the WIFA (Western India Football Association) and Mumbai-based I-League Football Club,
Mumbai FC was an exhibition football match organized by campaign STIGMA (Sensitivity Towards Individuals Grappling with Mental Ailments), an initiative by third year media students of Wilson College.
STIGMA, as the name suggests, is a campaign that aims to reduce the Stigma surrounding around mental illness in society. It also aims at creating a more sensitive and friendly environment for mentally ill patients. This in turn, would help these people to break out of the closed shells they live in and open up about their problems with no fear. The campaign sponsors include Gujarat-based Fitness Group, Urban Fitness Club and Valsad-based NGO for mentally ill patients, Atmaviswas Vidyalaya.
The STIGMA team consists of 6 members, namely, Shasvathi Siva, Teesha Thomas, Wanpli Synnah, Shane Luke, Alisha Simon and Ghanshyam Thakur.
The high-octane exhibition match, played between Mumbai FC, managed by Kuwaiti, Khaild Jamil and the WIFA under sultry conditions was held at Priyadarshini Park, Nepean Sea Road from 3:00 PM – 4:30 PM on January 11. Mumbai FC emerged victorious in the match, defeating the WIFA team by a slender 1-0 margin. The solitary goal was scored by Cavin Lobo from Mumbai FC. Lobo was also awarded as the Best Player of the Match for his mazy runs down the flank as well for his beautiful long-range strike. However, it was the ‘Beautiful Game’ that turned out to be the ultimate and fitting winner in this clash, promoting a good cause.
The event was graced by the presence of guests such as Henry Menezes (CEO, WIFA), Souter Vaz (Secretary, WIFA), as well as Mr. Bipin Malia, Head of Valsad- based NGO for mentally ill patients, Atmaviswas Vidyalaya.
On display, was also artwork by the mentally ill residing at the centre of the campaign’s partner NGO, Atmaviswas Vidyalaya. The exhibits clearly highlighted the fact that these people are equally capable and only need to be given a platform to showcase their talents.
