ITHONI Culture

ITHONI’s values go far beyond conscious garment creation. ITHONI believes that we can all contribute to making a better world. For every item sold, ITHONI donates to the Lazio Colors Association, affiliated with basketball programs in Mozambique. ITHONI believes that playing sports builds confidence and trust, strengthening one’s connection to society. The Lazio Colors Association motto, "Social inclusion through Education and Sports," perfectly aligns with ITHONI’s guiding principles.

History of Project Colors

Simone Santi from Italy, a former basketball player and businessman, founded the Lazio Colors Association with his family, friends, and an extensive sports network. Established in Mozambique in 2008, the non-profit organization supports sports and educational initiatives in collaboration with the Basketball Association of Maputo, the country’s capital. The association is active in Mozambique, Italy, and the United States.

The Lazio Colors Association headquarters are located at Av. de Moçambique, Km Centro Arco Íris, Bairro Zimpeto, Maputo, with eight additional locations in Maputo and one in Cabo Delgado. The organization currently supports over 600 athletes in Mozambique and more than 1,700 athletes internationally, offering a variety of sports initiatives in the region.

Since its creation in 2008, the association’s mission has focused on youth development and creating opportunities through sports. Identifying areas of need, free training centers and basketball clubs were established to provide children with team-based basketball experiences and coaching, helping young athletes acquire skills to compete at the international level.

In collaboration with local sports clubs, Project Colors has become a recognized social community organization, uniting people and empowering children through sports. In 2009, the first center opened in Zimpeto, a district in Maputo. By fostering confidence, trust, and opportunities through team competition, young athletes develop a stronger connection to the society around them.

Lazio Colors Association Objectives:

  • Engage children, adolescents, orphans, and underprivileged youth in sports to reduce juvenile delinquency.
  • Promote cultural and social integration for children in need through sports activities.
  • Implement programs linking basketball and education, offering mentorship through adolescence and beyond.
  • Help young athletes gain exposure and secure sports scholarships at national and international academic institutions with competitive programs.
  • Provide long-term athletic development support to nurture talent and ensure players reach their full potential on and off the court.