Bangladesh Football Captain Jamal Bhuyan Joins Healthy Goals in Cardiff
Saturday, 26th July 2025, was a day to remember for the children and families attending the Healthy Goals – Community Football and Food Programme at The Marl Park, in Cardiff, as they were joined by a very special guest , Jamal Bhuyan, the captain of the Bangladesh national football team.
Jamal, a true role model and inspiration to aspiring footballers worldwide, spent the morning with the Healthy Goals participants, sharing his story of determination, hard work, and community pride. From a kickabout on the 3G pitch to heartfelt conversations with the children, Jamal’s presence brought excitement, encouragement, and a powerful message of believing in your dreams.
“It’s amazing to see a project like this where kids get a chance to play, enjoy a healthy meal, and feel part of something positive,” Jamal said. “I see myself in these kids, growing up with limited opportunities but always pushing forward. I hope today shows them what’s possible.”
About Healthy Goals
The Healthy Goals programme, run by Bengal Dragons Foundation with support from the Welsh Government, is a free weekly initiative providing football training, nutritious hot meals, and practical food education for children aged 7–15 from Cardiff’s most deprived areas.
Every Saturday, up to 60 children gather at The Marl Park, in Grangetown, Cardiff, not just to play football but to enjoy a hot meal and learn about healthy eating in a way that’s fun, accessible, and culturally sensitive. The programme also be supporting parents and older young people with accredited food hygiene training, cooking demonstrations, and volunteering opportunities to help build skills and pathways to employment.
A Community Effort
The success of Healthy Goals is built on collaboration. The programme works closely with partners including Naseeha Youth Project, Cardiff and Vale College (CAVC), FareShare Cymru, Veg Power UK, Cardiff Council, and Wates Construction. Together, these partners bring in vital resources from surplus food and educational support to providing facilities and training opportunities.
“Jamal’s visit meant the world to the children and families. To see someone who looks like them, who understands their background, succeed at the highest level of football, sends a powerful message. Healthy Goals is about more than sport , it’s about giving families a bit of relief, kids a chance to be active and eat well, and showing them that their community cares,” said project lead at Bengal Dragons Foundation.
The demand for Healthy Goals is growing every week. Families are arriving early, children leave with smiles on their faces, and parents are asking for more sessions during the week. The feedback has been overwhelmingly positive, with many families expressing how the programme is easing financial pressures while providing a safe and supportive space for their children.
Bengal Dragons Foundation hopes to expand the Healthy Goals model across South Wales, showing that local, community-driven solutions can make a significant difference in tackling child poverty, promoting wellbeing, and fostering a sense of belonging.
Want to get involved or learn more about Healthy Goals?
Contact us at info@bengaldragonsfoundation.org
