On Saturday, July 25th, 2026, Samantha Richards and Angela Hifume, both alumnae of Street Child United (SCU), presented the United Declaration of the Street Child World Cup 2026 at the Hall of Flags in United Nations Headquarters, New York. The declaration, centered on football and the campaign message “I Am Somebody,” represents the voices of hundreds of street-connected children.

Richards shared how football transformed her life amid personal difficulties at home that affected her mental health. “Growing up, I had some difficulties at home,” she said. “But football gave me friendships, leadership skills, and an outlet to speak up.” Through SCU, she connected with other footballers pursuing education and became the first in her family to earn a college degree. She emphasized that “Sport is a catalyst for mental health advocacy, and it’s ok to speak up when you’re struggling, just like I did.”

Hifume recounted her experience in the Philippine foster care system, where isolation led to feelings of worthlessness. “In foster care, it’s so easy to think that you’re nothing more than a foster kid,” she said. SCU provided her with leadership opportunities, a platform to speak, and eventually a scholarship to study in the United States, along with a PhD offer from Oxford University. She credited football for inspiring her curiosity about the world beyond the game.

The declaration was originally developed in Oaxtepec, Mexico, where 28 teams competed in the 2026 Street Child World Cup. Bringing the declaration to New York, which co-hosted the World Cup final, symbolized a full circle moment for Richards. “Standing in the Hall of Flags and the General Assembly wasn’t just about me,” she said. “It was about every young person who’s ever been made to feel invisible.”