A life-changing experience at the NEC Hangar.

On Monday, a group of ten girls aged 14-16 from the conflict-zone Colombian town of Puerto Tejada were treated to a unique immersion opportunity, with Essendon opening its doors as part of the 'Experiences that Change Lives' partnership between the Colombian Government and Department of Foreign Affairs.

The young group are emerging leaders within their community, paving the way by advocating for gender equality in remote towns.

Travelling on a journey through Sydney and Melbourne, the day spent at the NEC Hangar saw the group tour the facilities and learn about our club’s history, before meeting and engaging in a kick-to-kick with our AFLW playing squad and staff members.

The planned agenda for the group’s visit to Australia fosters invaluable skills in teamwork and provides exposure to academic and sporting institutions which champion gender equality. This is the first time the program has been run with an AFL/AFLW lens.

Essendon hopes the opportunity can help better the lives of the students involved, who will be able to channel their experiences upon their return home.