London Bangla A Force for the community…
By Emdad Rahman
Twelve teams from across the UK will once again come together to take part in the Amar Sylhet Football Tournament – a veterans’ competition that has quickly established itself as one of the most eagerly awaited events in the grassroots sporting calendar.
Now entering its fourth year, the tournament was originally founded in 2022 in response to the catastrophic floods that devastated the Sylhet region of Bangladesh. The natural disaster left thousands displaced, their homes and livelihoods destroyed. In the midst of this crisis, Amar Sylhet was created, not merely as a football event, but as a powerful expression of unity and purpose.
What began as a grassroots initiative has since evolved into a national movement. Veteran footballers, managers, volunteers, and supporters have rallied around the cause, using the beautiful game as a vehicle for fundraising, awareness, and enduring solidarity with communities in need.
Tournament organiser Imrul Gazi paid tribute to the commitment shown by everyone involved: “I can’t speak highly enough of all the teams and management who take the time to participate – Their commitment is what makes this event so successful year after year.”
Gazi also emphasised the critical role that fundraising continues to play in supporting recovery efforts: “The money we raise is vital and it goes a long way toward improving lives in the Sylhet region. The impact is real, and the support means everything to those still rebuilding their lives.”
Amar Sylhet has become a symbol of community spirit, resilience, and the transformative power of sport. As this year’s edition kicks off, it does so with renewed passion, carrying not just the excitement of competition, but the enduring hope of meaningful change.
