Uganda, with its title as the country with the world's youngest population, boasts a median age of just 15 years old. Yet, despite this youthful energy, 41% of Ugandans face the harsh realities of poverty. It is considered one of the poorest countries in the world. In a nation where opportunities can seem limited, El Cambio Academy emerges as a ray of hope.
El Cambio Academy was founded by Thomas, a passionate coach from Denmark, who saw the need to support children in Africa, especially those who lacked the same opportunities as their counterparts in Europe or the United States. The academy goes beyond football training; it provides boys and girls in Uganda with access to education and character development sessions.
One of the most significant achievements of El Cambio is its dedication to gender equality in a society where it's often believed that there is no future in sports for girls. The academy breaks these stereotypes by offering girls the same opportunities as boys. Since the launch of the girls' program in January 2021, it has made significant strides in encouraging girls to believe in themselves and that they can achieve just as much as boys can.
At El Cambio Academy, boys and girls are placed on equal footing. The organization's goal extends beyond sports – it includes character classes that aim to train girls to become future leaders. The vision is to transform the culture in Uganda, helping these girls believe that they can be presidents, police officers, or any other role they aspire to, with the power to influence positive change in their country.
El Cambio Academy's programs are comprehensive, spanning over five to six years and beginning when the students are around nine years old. After their time at the academy, many of them receive one-year scholarships to study in the United States, allowing them to broaden their horizons. The goal is to create a ripple effect as these alumni return to Uganda, sharing their knowledge and network to inspire positive change in their communities.
Shape Games proudly stands as a sponsor for El Cambio Academy, offering support since June 2022. In 2023, this collaboration has been expanded to support the dreams of both girls and boys involved in the academy's life- transforming programs. Together, they are working to provide the youth of Uganda with an opportunity to dream bigger, reach higher, and shape their destinies.
El Cambio Academy is much more than a football academy; it's a life-altering initiative that has the power to shape the future of Uganda. In a nation where dreams are often overshadowed by poverty and inequality, this organization provides a glimmer of hope. Shape Games' sponsorship underscores their commitment to empowering the next generation of Ugandans, ensuring that they not only dream big but also achieve those dreams and contribute to positive change in their communities and country.
Watch the inspiring video here and join the movement to support El Cambio Academy as they continue to make a lasting impact on the lives of Uganda's youth.
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