At John Cockerill, team spirit is not limited to professional projects. Sometimes, it takes the form of a sporting challenge… in support of a meaningful cause. This is exactly what several Group employees experienced during a solidarity teambuilding event organised by Mathilde Renard, Electromechanical Engineer, in aid of the non-profit organisation DUANIWA, which supports the education of disadvantaged children.
It all began with a memory shared by her colleagues… from the last sports day held in 2023. “Hearing my colleagues’ nostalgic comments made me want to recreate the experience,” admits Mathilde. With the full support of management, the next step was simply to “bring it all together.” A small organising team quickly formed, full of enthusiasm and motivation, ensuring that every detail was carefully planned.
“Supporting a cause is part of John Cockerill’s values. Helping educate children who could one day become our future colleagues through DUANIWA seemed like an obvious choice for the entire team,” explains Mathilde.
On the day itself, the sun was shining and smiles were everywhere. Matches followed one another, competitive yet always in good spirits, with everyone putting their heart into making the day a success. Mathilde wishes to thank all those who contributed, whether by helping organise, serving at the bar, or collecting clothes for the children.
Alongside the sporting challenge, the clothing collection was an incredible success. These donations will be sent in January 2026 with the DUANIWA team to a school located in the mountains of northern Thailand. According to the DUANIWA team, “These clothes will allow the children to start the school year with dignity and comfort. Every gesture, no matter how small, helps offer them a better future.”
For Mathilde, the message is clear: “Don’t hesitate to get involved, no matter the cause, because a smile is priceless!” This day proves that with a little enthusiasm and a lot of heart, a simple idea can become a collective adventure that brings people together, motivates, and inspires.
DUANIWA, based in Liège, Belgium, aims to promote, develop, and support any action that fosters education, access to schooling, healthcare, and the development of children in distress, vulnerable, or at risk in Thailand.