about us
Who are we
United Sports Cyprus (USC) is a locally led non-profit organization that aims to unite and educate communities through sports, with a mission to dismantle physical barriers associated with xenophobia and inequality while integrating minority groups into society. USC strives to provide equal sporting opportunities for individuals of all ages, backgrounds, and ethnicities, empowering both youth and adults to advocate for an inclusive society.
What sets USC apart is its innovative approach to sport for development. The organization seamlessly weaves sports and team-building activities into a cutting-edge curriculum of on-court engagements. Through this carefully crafted strategy, USC aims to dismantle ingrained social and cultural stereotypes. The process of structured integration becomes a linchpin in their methodology, fostering the organic development of mutual trust, lasting friendships, and the emergence of a new shared identity among participants. In essence, USC is not merely an advocate for sports; it is a champion for societal transformation, leveraging the universality of sports to bridge divides and promote a more cohesive, inclusive society.
our core values
Equity & Inclusion
We are dedicated to fairness, equal opportunities for all, and celebrating diversity in our communities, appreciating each individual’s unique contributions to sports and beyond.
Peace & Understanding
We utilize sports for conflict resolution and peaceful dialogue, fostering empathy, and facilitate cross-cultural exchanges to promote learning and bridge-building between communities.
Education & Empowerment
We harness the transformative power of sports for education, nurturing life skills and leadership while instilling purpose, and empower individuals to become catalysts for positive change in their communities through sports.
Stephanie Nicolas
Founder & Director
Stephanie, born in Nicosia, Cyprus, earned a Bachelor’s in Sport Science and Coaching from the University of Bedfordshire and a Master’s in Globalization and Sport from Loughborough University. Her basketball involvement introduced her to the first bi-communal camps in Cyprus in 2005. She progressed from young leader in 2006 and 2007 to instructor in 2008 and 2009.
In 2011, Stephanie volunteered as a coach for PeacePlayers Cyprus, later joining them as Assistant Coordinator in 2013, becoming Program Coordinator, and in September 2019, Internal Operations Manager. In May 2023, after PeacePlayers-Cyprus (PP-CY) concluded its cross-border sport and peace education efforts, Stephanie founded United Sports Cyprus (USC). The establishment of USC was driven by a profound need to continue the vital work of promoting peace and unity through sport. PP-CY left a significant gap in the region, and USC was created to fill that void, ensuring that the positive momentum and the impactful programs initiated by PP-CY would not only be sustained but also expanded.
With over 12 years of experience in the sport for development and peace sector, Stephanie’s expertise in sport for conflict resolution will significantly impact the team and projects in Cyprus. Her deep understanding of how sports can be a powerful tool for social change will help USC in its mission to foster community cohesion, promote dialogue, and build lasting peace in a region that has experienced prolonged division.
To envision a world where sports serve as a powerful catalyst, uniting diverse communities, fostering mutual understanding and creating a brighter future for all.
To unite and educate communities through sports, breaking down barriers and building bridges of understanding. Through inclusive programs, educational initiatives, and a commitment to fair play, we aim to empower individuals from different backgrounds and strengthen the bonds that connects us, ultimately making our communities stronger and more inclusive.
