Sun Life and Beyond Sport have completed the second year of their Hoops + Health program, which aims to promote active lifestyles among young people in Asia through basketball. The initiative, launched in September 2023, has now reached more than 48,000 participants across six Asian markets: Hong Kong, Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Vietnam, and Singapore.
In its second year, the program saw a significant increase in engagement. Participation grew by 250% compared to 2024 figures. Nearly 87% of surveyed youth reported increased opportunities for physical activity due to free basketball sessions provided by the program. Additionally, the number of trained coaches rose by 103%, with 94% of them believing that their new skills would positively affect the youth they support. The program also distributed improved basketball equipment to 17,700 young people.
Participant Shanelle Lim from Singapore shared her experience: “When I first joined the Hoops + Health program, I was just looking for a place to play basketball, but it has turned out to be so much more. The program helped me improve my skills on the court, and also taught me about health, teamwork, and self-confidence. I’m now interning as a coach, and I couldn’t be more excited to give back by sharing what I’ve learned through the program and passing on the power of basketball to others in my community.”
To further address youth inactivity issues in Asia’s urban centers—where rates are rising—Sun Life increased its investment in Hoops + Health from CAD$1 million last year to CAD$1.5 million this year. The funding supports improved access to safe spaces and resources for underprivileged areas; deeper engagement with communities through events and workshops; and ongoing free basketball sessions.
David Broom, Chief Client and Distribution Officer at Sun Life Asia said: "We're incredibly proud of how Hoops + Health has grown in its second year. Hearing stories from people who have been part of the program and are now giving back to others in the community shows the true impact of what we are doing and how much the program means to the participants. At Sun Life, we remain committed to helping people live healthier lives by investing in communities, removing barriers and empowering the next generation to get active."
Fred Fikouhi-Turner, Executive Director at Beyond Sport added: "It’s been wonderful to see the number of active young people continue to grow in the second year of Hoops + Health. Through expanded youth programming, inclusive festivals and educational training adapted to each region, the program is reaching even more communities across Asia through the joy of sport. Beyond Sport is pleased to partner with Sun Life to use basketball to provide vital health and wellness skills that will last a lifetime.”
Sun Life operates globally as an asset management and financial services provider with operations across multiple continents including Canada and several Asian countries. As of June 30th 2025 it reported $1.54 trillion in assets under management (www.sunlife.com). Beyond Sport is an international foundation supporting social change initiatives through sports since 2008.
The full impact report on Hoops + Health can be accessed online at beyondsport.org/hoops-health.