This unique partnership delivers a two-pronged approach to fight HIV/AIDS in Africa by delivering funds to support programs that offer education and medication on the ground and will harness the power of sport to engage youth around the world in the fight against AIDS in Africa.
The Nike and (RED) concept is a simple one that invites people to “Lace Up. Save Lives” by purchasing a pair of NIKE (PRODUCT)RED™ laces. One hundred percent of the profits from (NIKE)RED laces will be split equally between The Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria, which funds AIDS programs that provide medicine for those living with HIV, and Nike football-based community initiatives that deliver education and understanding around HIV/AIDS prevention.
Our very own national footballer Hariss Harun is the one of the ambassadors for the "Lace UP. Save Lives" campaign. Here are some of his thoughts on his role:
We understand you’re also an ambassador for the Nike (RED) campaign. How can football help in spreading the message?
It’s a great idea using football, as it’s a sport that is very popular around the world. Personally, I’m glad to be involved in this campaign as it lets me give something back to the community. It also makes me realise that growing up in Singapore, I’m very fortunate compared to some of the suffering the children are going through in Africa with HIV/AIDS.
Are you already wearing the Nike (RED) laces?
The Iran game on January 6 will be the first AFC game where I’ll be wearing them, and who knows, the red laces might even give us some luck!
What do you hope to achieve as an ambassador?
If there’s one thing I’d like to say to the youths in Singapore, it’s to never take anything for granted. HIV/AIDS is not something to take lightly. As an ambassador, I want to tell people to be positive and honest with themselves. It’s important for them to be more responsible, and love and protect their bodies. We should also have an open mind, and to look past the stigma of people who have HIV/AIDS.
Have you managed to get your friends and family involved in this campaign as well?
I have relayed its message to them; they understand what’s going on, and are very supportive of what it’s about. My parents are happy and proud that I’m a part of something so thoughtful, and on such a global scale.
Apart from being an ambassador, you’re also one of the youngest captains to take to the field. Do you feel a lot of pressure from expectations?
Initially, there was, but I’ve learnt to live with it. One important lesson from watching professional footballers is to not let personal or external issues affect what happens on the field, because you have to be professional as it’s what you do for a living.
It’s a great idea using football, as it’s a sport that is very popular around the world. Personally, I’m glad to be involved in this campaign as it lets me give something back to the community. It also makes me realise that growing up in Singapore, I’m very fortunate compared to some of the suffering the children are going through in Africa with HIV/AIDS.
Are you already wearing the Nike (RED) laces?
The Iran game on January 6 will be the first AFC game where I’ll be wearing them, and who knows, the red laces might even give us some luck!
What do you hope to achieve as an ambassador?
If there’s one thing I’d like to say to the youths in Singapore, it’s to never take anything for granted. HIV/AIDS is not something to take lightly. As an ambassador, I want to tell people to be positive and honest with themselves. It’s important for them to be more responsible, and love and protect their bodies. We should also have an open mind, and to look past the stigma of people who have HIV/AIDS.
Have you managed to get your friends and family involved in this campaign as well?
I have relayed its message to them; they understand what’s going on, and are very supportive of what it’s about. My parents are happy and proud that I’m a part of something so thoughtful, and on such a global scale.
Apart from being an ambassador, you’re also one of the youngest captains to take to the field. Do you feel a lot of pressure from expectations?
Initially, there was, but I’ve learnt to live with it. One important lesson from watching professional footballers is to not let personal or external issues affect what happens on the field, because you have to be professional as it’s what you do for a living.
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