KLABU x On: Joint Forces to Strengthen Refugee Communities Through Movement

ZURICH, Switzerland, May 12, 2025 - On’s social impact program, Right To Run, and KLABU foundation and social enterprise dedicated to building community-led sports clubhouses in refugee camps, announce a multi-year partnership to expand access to sport and movement in displaced communities. The partnership will support KLABU’s mission to build sports clubhouses in refugee camps and cities, providing access to sports, play, and cultivating a sense of belonging. KLABU’s clubhouses are multi-purpose spaces that offer a sports library and organized training sessions, a place to connect, broadcast TV matches, music, and Wi-Fi, fostering hope and connection. ​ ​ ​ 

"On believes in the power of movement to ignite the human spirit," says Sahra Kaboli-Nejad, Head of Social Impact at On. "This partnership with KLABU and Right To Run is a testament to our commitment to turning movement into social change and creating sustainable impact. We first got involved with the Kalobeyei (Kenya) clubhouse in 2023, leading us to establish an official partnership the following year, with a commitment to opening one new KLABU clubhouse a year, with further partnership growth in the future.”

This multifaceted collaboration between KLABU and On goes beyond traditional corporate partnerships by emphasizing shared purpose and community leadership to maximize impact. Both organizations are committed to working closely together through key initiatives: launching clubhouses around the world, equipping them with sports equipment, spreading awareness about the real barriers to movement and amplifying the powerful stories of refugee athletes and movers. This collaborative effort centers community leaders and fosters an environment where all involved can discover, or rediscover, the unbeatable spirit through movement. 

On is making significant financial contributions to support the development of KLABU clubhouses and programs, as well as in-kind donations, and over 1000 units of sports equipment for the sports equipment library. The contributions are directed to clubhouses in locations such as M'bera (Mauritania) and Commewijne (Suriname). Beyond financial support, On is also encouraging active engagement from On team members through shared volunteer and educational opportunities. On is committed to transparency and will provide regular updates on the impact of the partnership and how funds are being used.

"Partnering with On has significantly amplified KLABU’s impact.” said Jan van Hövell, KLABU’s founder “The entire On team has been incredible, working closely with our team and refugee communities around the world to unlock the power of movement. This is only the beginning; we’re excited for all that lies ahead!" ​ ​

KLABU's dedication to building more than just clubhouses, but true centers of community and hope, is the driving force behind this partnership. It is through this shared vision and collective action that On and KLABU aim to create a lasting impact, celebrating the resilience and power of the human spirit through movement.

The M’bera Clubhouse story launches today, May 12, 2025. To learn more about the clubhouse and its impact, visit HERE and learn more about how you can support refugees through the power of sport HERE.

About On

On was born in the Swiss Alps in 2010 with the mission to ignite the human spirit through movement – a mission that still guides the brand today. Fifteen years after market launch, On delivers industry-disrupting innovation in premium footwear, apparel and accessories for high-performance running, outdoor, training, all-day activities and tennis. On’s award-winning CloudTec® and LightSpray™ innovation, purposeful design and groundbreaking strides within the circular economy have attracted a fast-growing global fan base – inspiring humans to explore, discover and Dream On.

On is present in more than 80 countries globally and engages with a digital community on www.on.com.

About Right To Run

Right To Run™ is On’s flagship social impact program, rooted in our mission to ignite the human spirit through movement. In 2024, the program amplified the transformative work of over 75 organizations across the globe. From supporting inner- city children to discover the great outdoors, to helping refugees rebuild through sport, we seek to improve the lives of underserved communities and preserve everyone’s fundamental right to run and move.

About KLABU

KLABU, which means ‘club’ in Swahili, is the cross-border sports club changing the playing field for refugees. The Amsterdam based organisation builds community-led clubhouses where refugees can find joy, pride and hope through sports, no matter the circumstances. Each clubhouse has its own unique KLABU sportswear, available to supporters worldwide who want to play their part. The goal: to build the world’s biggest sports club and support refugees on their way to a better future.