EMCA Delegation Attends the #BeActive EU Sport Awards 2026 in Brussels
BRUSSELS, BELGIUM — On Tuesday 23 June 2026, the European Multisport Club Association (EMCA) attended the prestigious #BeActive EU Sport Awards, held at the BOZAR – Centre for Fine Arts in Brussels.
The high-profile event celebrated inspiring initiatives and individuals from across Europe that successfully use sport as a powerful tool to promote social inclusion, active participation, volunteering, and profound social impact.
The ceremony brought together key representatives from European institutions, national governments, and the wider European sport sector.
Prominent figures played important roles throughout the event, contributing to the recognition and celebration of the awarded initiatives, while highlighting the vital importance of sport in building stronger, healthier, and more inclusive societies.
Among the distinguished guests and speakers were Glenn Micallef, European Commissioner for Intergenerational Fairness, Youth, Culture and Sport; Dr. Athene Michaelidou, Minister of Education, Sport and Youth of Cyprus; and Pia Ahrenkilde Hansen, Director-General of DG Education, Youth, Sport and Culture.
A particularly memorable and emotional moment of the evening was the inspiring address by Sébastien Bellin, former professional basketball player and survivor of the 2016 Brussels terrorist attacks.
Reflecting deeply on his personal journey, Bellin spoke movingly about overcoming fear, losing the ego, and maintaining focus, effectively reminding the entire audience that true strength extends far beyond the boundaries of sport.
The #BeActive EU Sport Awards provided an excellent, high-level opportunity to connect with key European stakeholders and to witness firsthand the positive, transformative impact of sport-driven initiatives across Europe.
EMCA remains firmly committed to supporting such framework actions that reinforce the European sport model and foster cooperation across all levels.
