To mark the inaugural World Volleyball Day, Qatar Foundation (QF) has hosted a series of community-wide activations to promote the sport at all levels.
Starting this year, World Volleyball Day – a global initiative led by the FIVB, the governing body for all volleyball disciplines – is celebrated annually on July 7 and by marking this occasion, the QF is demonstrating its commitment to the FIVB to promote and grow volleyball across Qatar, celebrating the sport in all its forms.
Kholoud M al-Ali, executive director for community engagement and programming at Qatar Foundation Communication Initiatives, said: “We’re proud to be playing our part in celebrating the first World Volleyball Day, and to mark this global occasion with activities that bring our community together through sports.”
“At Qatar Foundation, we believe in the power of sports to unite people, and these events are about more than just volleyball – they’re about creating welcoming, inclusive spaces where people of all ages and abilities can come together to learn something new, stay active, build connections – and have fun,” she said.
Amna Alkuwari, chairwoman of the Women's Committee and member of the Board of Directors at the Qatar Volleyball Association (QVA), said: “This initiative reflects our shared commitment to empowering women and youth through sport.”
“By creating inclusive, engaging volleyball experiences during Ladies Night, we aim to inspire a new generation of athletes and promote the positive impact of physical activity in the community,” she said.
The QF’s celebrations began with two educational workshops for boys and girls, aimed at introducing children to the sport, raising awareness around the importance of healthy lifestyles, and inspiring a love for active living through volleyball.
Held at Awsaj Recreation in Education City as part of QF Pre-University Education Mukhayamna Summer Camp, the sessions delivered in collaboration with Top Volleyball brought together 44 children.
The QF then hosted a ladies-only volleyball tournament in partnership with Sports Lab, featuring eight teams from across the country.
Held at Qatar Academy Doha, the event brought together more than 60 women to celebrate sportsmanship and team spirit.
Lebanese student Pia Saliba, 15, from English Modern School, played for the QF in the ladies-only tournament.
“I’ve always loved volleyball – the energy, the teamwork, and the rush you feel on the court,” she said.
“Being part of the QF for the past year has truly helped me grow, not just as a player but as a person,” Saliba added. “The environment is supportive and motivating, and it’s pushed me to give my best every time I step on the court.”
As the World Volleyball Day celebrations continue, the QF is teaming up with the QVA to bring a special volleyball-themed edition of Ladies Night to Education City Stadium Tuesday.
Open to women and girls aged six and above, the event will feature demonstrations, games, and workshops for all ages and fitness levels, include appearances by QVA players, and empower participants while promoting female participation in sport through inclusive activities.
