FundLife Champions Water Sustainability in World Water Day Celebration with Manchester City and Xylem

On March 1, 2025, FundLife, in partnership with Xylem and Manchester City, hosted a remarkable World Water Day event in Tacloban City. Representatives from Manchester City and Xylem, along with special guest Joleon Lescott, a Manchester City Legend, attended this milestone event, celebrating the dedication of FundLife Youth Mentors and Young Leaders in championing water sustainability.

The journey leading to this event was a testament to the dedication and passion of FundLife’s Youth Mentors. In October 2024, FundLife's Young Leaders—Coach Lyra, Coach France, Coach Dan, Teacher Renzo, and Teacher Rojie—submitted a project proposal as part of the Water Champions Project with Xylem. Competing against youth groups from across the world, they emerged as one of four finalists. The final presentation, held on June 16, 2024, saw them competing with Young Leaders from Nairobi, Washington, and New York. On February 19, 2025, Manchester City and Xylem officially announced FundLife as the winners, marking a significant victory for youth-led sustainability efforts.

Since 2023, Xylem has provided mentorship and capacity-building sessions to FundLife Young Leaders, equipping them with the knowledge and skills to advocate for water conservation. These young mentors have since paid it forward by leading educational sessions on water sustainability for students, ensuring the ripple effect of their learning reaches more communities.

The World Water Day activities in Tacloban were divided into two impactful parts. The morning session took place at Paraiso Mangrove Eco-learning Park and Marine and Wildlife Sanctuary in San Jose, Tacloban City. Here, participants, including local youth groups, barangay officials, and students, engaged in a coastal clean-up, collecting plastic waste that accumulates in the mangrove forest due to high tide. This was followed by a mangrove planting activity, reinforcing the natural buffer against storm surges and demonstrating the community’s commitment to environmental preservation.

To solidify long-term sustainability efforts, a Memorandum of Agreement was signed between FundLife, local youth groups, and barangay officials. This agreement pledged continuous community-driven activities aligned with the vision of water conservation. Participants also expressed their commitment by signing a symbolic commitment wall, signifying their dedication to protecting local water resources.

As the morning activities concluded, the participants, along with Xylem and Manchester City representatives, proceeded to the Leyte Progressive High School Gymnasium. Here, two simultaneous activities took place—a Water Filtration Workshop and a Futsal Tournament, highlighting the importance of both education and play in engaging young minds.

In the Water Filtration Workshop, students were taught essential skills on filtering water, a critical lesson for those living in areas with limited access to clean drinking water. The hands-on experience provided a deeper understanding of water sustainability and safe drinking practices.

Meanwhile, the Futsal Tournament brought excitement and camaraderie. Joleon Lescott received an enthusiastic welcome from the children, who erupted in cheers upon his arrival. He took part in the Ceremonial Kick-Off, symbolizing the start of the games. The tournament featured six competing teams, with standout players recognized with individual awards such as the Mythical Five and the Gold Boot awards. Joleon himself joined a match, inspiring the young athletes with his presence and sportsmanship.

The World Water Day celebration was more than just a one-day event; it was a powerful demonstration of what is possible when young leaders, communities, and global partners come together for a common cause. FundLife’s partnership with Xylem and Manchester City continues to drive lasting change, equipping youth with the knowledge, skills, and passion to champion water sustainability.

As the event concluded, the echoes of cheers, the sight of newly planted mangroves, and the lessons shared in water conservation remained in the hearts of all participants. The day served as a reminder that small actions, when multiplied by many, create waves of change—ensuring that future generations will have access to clean water and a healthier environment.

With unwavering commitment and collaboration, FundLife and its partners are proving that young people are not just the leaders of tomorrow, but the changemakers of today.