The Newham All Star Sports Academy (NASSA) recently hosted a basketball match to symbolise the tragedies caused by knife crime in the local community. Each hoop shot represented a young life lost to knife violence in the borough of Newham over the past year. This event served as a powerful demonstration of the tireless efforts of NASSA and the Metropolitan Police in combating the pervasive issue of knife crime.
NASSA, which originated from a mother taking her children to play basketball in a local park, has evolved into a strong community organisation over the last 15 years. It is now dedicated to teaching young people about the dangers of knives and providing mentoring for its members. The organisation has also been instrumental in the Carry a Basketball Not a Blade campaign, initiated by one of its own members, Anthony Okereafor, who was deeply impacted by the loss of friends to knife violence.
Through initiatives like this, NASSA has reached an estimated 4,000 young people in Newham, offering them an alternative to the streets and potentially knives. The organisation’s partnership with the Metropolitan Police has been a key element in their efforts to engage with the community, working towards prevention and offering valuable life skills.
The local authorities have expressed their full support for NASSA’s work, acknowledging the grassroots efforts and consistency that the organisation brings to the table. Unmesh Desai, Labour’s London Assembly spokesperson on policing and crime, commended NASSA for their unwavering commitment to the cause and stressed the importance of community engagement in addressing the issue.
The significance of NASSA’s work is further underscored by its impact on the relationship between young people and the police. The club’s efforts to bridge this divide have been well-received, as both sides seek to break down barriers and build mutual understanding and trust.
The primary message that NASSA and its partners are aiming to convey is one of hope. It is not about living in fear and insecurity, but about coming together as a community to tackle the root causes of knife crime. It is about providing young people with the guidance and support they need to make positive choices and move away from a path of violence and harm.
The club’s founder, Natasha Hart, and its members, along with the Metropolitan Police, are demonstrating the power of collaboration and community engagement in addressing one of the most pressing issues facing society today. By fostering a sense of belonging, providing alternatives, and imparting valuable life skills, they are effecting real change in the lives of young people.
In conclusion, the work of NASSA and its partners is not just about basketball; it is about empowering young people to make choices that lead to a safer and more positive future. It is a reminder of the transformative impact that community-led initiatives can have in addressing complex social challenges. Together, they are making a difference, one hoop at a time.