In partnership with the Kalinga Institute of Industrial Technology (KIIT) and the Kalinga Institute of Social Sciences (KISS), the FIVB launched the Kanya Kiran “Girl Sunshine” Mass Participation Programme in India this week, with the programme aiming to empower young girls through volleyball.

The launch event saw thousands of girls took part in skill sessions, games, mini-matches and interactive drills, discovering volleyball as a space to challenge themselves, build confidence and work together. For many, it was their first experience of structured sport, giving them the chance to develop new skills and leadership qualities while having fun on the court.

The event also brought together representatives of the Brahmaputra Volleyball League, including the league’s U12 and U16 girls’ champion teams. Supported by the FIVB Volleyball Foundation, the Brahmaputra Volleyball League engaged more than 10,000 children across India this year and continues to grow as one of the largest grassroots volleyball programmes in the world.

On the court, the programme was led by FIVB instructors John Kessel and Jana Kulan, alongside local teachers and youth coaches. Kessel, a former USA Volleyball Director of Sport Development and author of more than 12 coaching publications has guided Olympic and Paralympic teams and spent decades helping coaches and players reach their potential.  

“Over the years I’ve seen just how much volleyball can bring people together,” Kessel said. “There’s nothing like picking up a ball and seeing the excitement in kids’ eyes. The energy, the excitement, the teamwork – it’s powerful! Moments like today show why it’s so important to keep giving people the chance to play, to learn and to grow.”

Jana Kulan, a former elite player from Slovakia who competed professionally in 10 countries, led sessions focused on learning through play. Her approach emphasised enjoyment, creativity and teamwork, giving he girls the freedom to explore the game and their own potential.

“Volleyball is about having fun and discovering what you can do,” Kulan said. “Seeing these girls excited to try new skills, make mistakes and laugh together reminds me how powerful the game can be, and it makes me happy that I can be part of something that so clearly is creating special memories for these children.”

The event was attended by a senior FIVB delegation, led by FIVB President Fabio Azevedo. Founder of KIIT and KISS Universities, Dr Achyuta Samanta, who was awarded the FIVB Grand Cross in November 2024 in recognition of his long-standing contribution to sport and education and his role in the development of volleyball in India, was also in attendance.

The Kanya Kiran Girl Sunshine programme reflects the core principles of the FIVB’s Strategic Vision 2032, grounded in the motto “Together as One”. By focusing on making volleyball more accessible, more affordable and more understandable, the programme demonstrates how volleyball can unite people, inspire confidence and create meaningful social impact.