No matter the audience, one question frequently arises when discussing sport for social good: “Yes, but how can sport solve that issue?” This question has trailed me throughout my career—from discussions about sport’s role in achieving the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs), to its integration into the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), and even casual conversations with those outside the field.

For many thematic areas, the answers come easily: social inclusion, gender equality, health and well-being—these are familiar territories. But when it comes to poverty alleviation, the skepticism lingers: “How can involvement in football affect poverty in a country or community?”

Football is often praised as a vehicle for positive change, particularly in the Global South, where its reach extends to some of the most marginalized communities. The idea that football can alleviate poverty is not new—it’s a message championed by NGOs, grassroots organizations, and major football institutions. Yet, for all the inspirational rhetoric, one critical question remains unanswered: how does football actually alleviate poverty?

A Tool, Not a Magic Wand

Current UN estimates have the amount of people globally living in poverty at around 1,1 billion. Half of these children and all living in very difficult circumstances. In such a pivotal moment in the world and with so many facing hardship, i often get a bit uneasy in my field when I hear some of the big slogans about the power of sport. First, let’s clear the air: football, or any sport, cannot single-handedly alleviate poverty (or accomplish big social economic challenges of any kind on its own). In the sport-for-good field, we often (perhaps too often) turn to the inspiring words of the great Nelson Mandela, who famously said, “Sport has the power to change the world.” However, this powerful statement is sometimes misinterpreted to mean that sport alone can solve complex societal challenges. It cannot.

Football for example is a tool—and its an excellent  one—that can mobilize, inspire, and create the conditions for meaningful change. But it is not a standalone solution or a magic wand. Mandela himself framed this sentiment on a micro level, continuing in the same quote: “It has the power to inspire. It has the power to unite people in a way little else does. It speaks to youth in a language they understand.”

This distinction is essential when discussing the role of football—or any sport—as a force for good. Football, as the world’s most popular sport, is uniquely positioned to serve as a catalyst for development. It offers communities a valuable platform to take meaningful steps toward alleviating poverty and improving lives. Let’s explore how this works in practice.

How Football Can Alleviate Poverty: Pathways to Impact

In many parts of the world, football is more than just a sport; it is a cultural lifeline. Whether it’s  in football crazy Argentina, in remote parts of Kenyan, the slums of India  or in migrant landing spots in Europe, football captures the imagination and offers a glimmer of hope in contexts often overshadowed by hardship.

Here are the most effective mechanisms through which football can alleviate poverty:

1. Education and Skill Development

Grassroots football programs  often provide more than athletic training—they offer educational opportunities. Football is a great mobilizer when it comes to gathering youth who come for the love of the game but who also can receive valuable life skills training which can lead to better employment opportunities.

Organizations like Grassroot Soccer in Sub-Saharan Africa integrate health and life-skills education into their programs, empowering youth with tools for both personal and professional growth. Vocational training is another avenue, teaching participants skills like event management, groundskeeping, or sports equipment repair—pathways that lead to broader employment opportunities.

Elite academies are also recognizing their potential for social impact. For example, Football Academies for Social Impact (FASI) in Mozambique embeds social entrepreneurship into its mission, prioritizing local hiring for every role—from coaches to catering staff—thereby building an ecosystem of sustainable economic activity.

2. Employment and Economic Stimulation

Football generates jobs directly and indirectly. Local tournaments employ coaches, referees, and organizers, while related industries such as sports manufacturing and hospitality flourish.

One standout example is Alive and Kicking, an NGO that produces high-quality footballs in Kenya and Zambia, creating jobs for local artisans and supplying durable products worldwide. Similarly, The UN (UNCTAD) is currently exploring how Africa can localize its participation in the billion-dollar sports economy by fostering homegrown entrepreneurs in kit-making, stadium operations, and more.

In fact one of the biggest advancements in the football and broader sport for social good field is the rise of social entrepreneurship as a focus in interventions. Organizations like Yunus Sport Hub have contributed so much to the way we think about interventions weather they be in remote areas or attached to major events.

3. Social and Community Development

Football fosters social cohesion, especially in regions recovering from conflict. In Sierra Leone, football programs have helped reintegrate child soldiers, while in other post-conflict areas, the sport serves as a platform for peacebuilding.

Infrastructure investments—such as building pitches or community centers—leave a lasting legacy, benefiting entire neighborhoods. Programs that employ and empower local talent ensure sustainability and prevent collapse when external funding diminishes.

4. Health and Well-Being

The health benefits of football extend beyond physical fitness. In Zambia, football programs have been used to combat HIV/AIDS by spreading awareness and encouraging testing. The mental health benefits are equally significant, particularly in trauma-affected areas, where football provides a sense of normalcy and hope.

Wherever football improves health, it indirectly alleviates poverty by reducing public healthcare burdens, freeing resources for other pressing needs. In fact in the UK, numerous research is being done in relation to the new UK Football Governance Bill to examine how to measure the real social value of a football club- what does it cover that the state no longer has to?

5. Pathways to Professional Opportunities

While not every grassroots player becomes the next Sadio Mané or Marta, the dream of professional football can still be transformative. Even for those who don’t reach elite levels, exposure to networks, mentorship, and life-changing opportunities can alter life trajectories. Let us not forget that many of the skills one learns on the pitch can translate directly into the job market. While this wasn’t widely recognized 10 or 20 years ago- the idea of dual careers is one that is now established and recognized.

Challenges in Translating Promise into Practice

Despite its potential, using football to alleviate poverty is not without challenges:

• Sustainability: Many programs rely heavily on external funding, making them vulnerable to collapse.
• Access: Rural and remote areas often lack infrastructure or resources for meaningful football programs.
• Short-Term Focus: Initiatives sometimes prioritize immediate outcomes over building long-term systems.
• Limited Data: Without robust metrics, it’s difficult to quantify the impact of football on poverty alleviation.

The Way Forward: Bridging the Gap

To unlock football’s full potential as a poverty alleviation tool, we must:

• Integrate Football with Development Goals: Align football programs with education, health, and employment initiatives.
• Prioritize Local Ownership: Employ local staff and address community-specific needs to ensure sustainability.
• Measure Impact: Develop metrics to track outcomes and refine strategies.
• Foster Partnerships: Collaborate with NGOs, governments, and private sponsors for resources and scalability. We need to build local eco-systems!

Conclusion: Moving Beyond the Narrative

Football is not a panacea, but it is a powerful catalyst. Its true potential lies in the hands of those who use it wisely—building not just players, but communities. The challenge is not in convincing the world that football can alleviate poverty; it’s in providing clear, actionable examples of how it contributes to that goal.

By bridging the gap between narrative and practice, football can become more than a game—it can be a wonderful teammate in giving people a brighter life.

Across Europe’s shores, a harrowing reality unfolds daily as countless migrants undertake perilous journeys in search of safety and opportunity. Fleeing war, persecution, and economic despair, they risk everything. For many the arrival in a new country is only the beginning of another battle—facing hostility, bureaucratic hurdles, and a desperate fight for belonging. In this era of unprecedented displacement, the plight of migrants calls for urgent action, empathy, and inclusive solutions that honor the courage it takes to seek a better life.

In this world where borders often divide and cultures can feel worlds apart, football is uniting. Few initiatives capture this better than I Speak Football, a program that uses the universal appeal of the beautiful game to bridge gaps between migrants and their new communities. Born from the belief that football transcends language, nationality, and background, I Speak Football is a lifeline for migrants navigating the challenges of displacement, offering them not just a place to play but a platform to belong. They show that football truly is a universal language.

As we mark International Migrants Day, I Speak Football stands as a testament to football’s unique ability to create connections and foster inclusion. Through its grassroots approach, the program empowers young migrants to build friendships, develop skills, and integrate into society—all through the simple, yet profound act of playing the game. It’s more than football; it’s a movement of hope, acceptance, and community.

Djibril Ayofe, founded I Speak Football five years ago, inspired by his personal struggles learning English as a migrant from The Ivory Coast. Traditional classroom methods were tough for the Ivorian turned UK resident, but he discovered that communication on the football pitch came naturally. Combining language learning with the sport he loves, Djibril created a project that makes learning accessible, fun, and engaging for migrants facing similar challenges. Driven by his own journey, he is now determined to ensure others have a smoother path toward integration, language skills, and a sense of belonging. Djibril was nice enough to share both his story and his vision for the future of his project with the Bonito Platform.

Bonito: Djibril, thank you so much for joining us on this International Migrants Day to speak about your wonderful program. Can you share your personal journey and how did your passion for football inspire you to create the I Speak Football program?

Djibril: I moved to the UK 9 years ago from the Ivory Coast. Thats a big change in culture and language. I was 17 years old, loved playing football, but speaking English as a second language made it challenging to take part in football activities with the other kids. Together with some friends we set up I Speak Football™ to support other young migrants and refugees to improve their English through football sessions that incorporate English language classes.

Bontio: Often migrants who come to a new contry face so many difficulties including communicating in a new language- thats where football can step in- what is it about football that seems to make it such a universal language no matter where you come from?

Djibril: For me, the game is the centre of anything we do, it’s exciting and always changing. It’s different in each country yet the same. I think that makes it like language. I know that wherever I have been I can go to a place and understand it. I also know that when I want to play well, I need to be able to communicate, and communicate quickly. This forces me to learn things that can help me succeed. I love the feeling of being part of a team and having a common goal, I want everyone that joins I Speak Football to feel that in their hearts. That we belong.

Bonito: How important is it for newcomers to have a safe and productive environment to learn the local language of their new country?

Djibril: Its very important but not just about the language- As migrants, it can feel like we have left the harder times behind, but unfortunately for many of us it still is quite difficult in our new countries. We are happy for the opportunity to learn the language and contribute to our new communities but we still carry baggage- the scars left behind from our journey. Working with experts in trauma-informed approaches has taught me a lot about how to approach sensitive issues, and also when to approach them. It has to be led by the individual and at their own pace. Many of the people that play don’t want to talk about their trauma, and that’s OK, but some do want to discuss it. We aren’t social workers or psychologists but we make sure we listen so that I Speak Football is a positive experience. 

Bonito: Can you tell us about the I Speak Football program in more detail and how it addresses the many barriers that new arrivals to countries often face in their efforts to integrate?

Djibril: Although the core of the program is language, mental health and football, we have quickly seen that our beneficiaries also need support in study readiness and employability skills. That’s why we’ve adapted some methodologies to have employability sessions as well as language sessions, and have added CV and interview workshops either as online sessions or in person to help them thrive in the community. With “the ball as the hook” we can do so much for these young people and help them integrate in their new communities. 

Bonito: The journey that many immigrants face in moving to their new countries often presents a tremendous strain on mental health- how does football help to improve that and to build further resilience going forward?

Djibril: I don’t know about other migrants, but for me it was an escape, somewhere I could go to feel comfortable and confident. It didn’t cost me much money, and no-one bothered me on the football pitch. Especially at first, it was the only place I felt OK. As I stayed longer here, it also gave me a sense of identity, Djibril the football player, Djibril the captain, and now Djibril from I Speak Football. I hope it provides other people that safe space, and a set of peers to learn and rely on- just like it has for me. We all need a safe lace to be authentic and feel we belong.

Bonito: Reflecting on your journey in football, is there a particular moment or experience that profoundly touched you and reinforced your commitment to this work?

Djibril:  Getting the coaching from the Chelsea FC, and Fulham FC coaches was amazing! Just knowing those people got to work with other Africans and amazing footballers was really inspiring. Many people come to the UK to play football and to have that support and see that badge was amazing for me. Watching new migrants come, and be shy, then grow more confident is really amazing for me- especially as I used to be very shy! 

Bonito: Where do you see this project developing over the next years? what are the plans for the future and for expanding?

Djibril: We are really excited for 2025, with new partners including GOALs, Loughborough University and others. We have fundraising targets for sessions in Chingford, Wembley and Camden. As well as expanding to areas where we can use I Speak Football as a tool to bring communities together. We think the riots this year showed that communities have a lot of problems, and football should be used as a tool to bring them together. So we want to add areas outside London, and especially those places dealing with lots of migration. We also have applied for funding to develop I Speak Football in Europe and America, and even a pilot with a wonderful basketball coach to start I Speak Basketball in Easter 2025. We have big plans, but are still learning. 

Bonito: How important are partnerships to a program like yours? local communities, mental health experts, language teachers- it feels like you need to have a really wide ranging team?

Djibril: We think of I Speak Football being a trio of language, football, and refugee/trauma-informed approaches. For each of these corners of the triangle we work with experts, and local representatives. We know that what might work in one area might not be right for others, or for different types of migrants. So we start by mapping partners, and working with refugee organisations to understand what are the barriers for integration in their community. Where possible we always try to work with local councils, mosques, churches, schools, and families to make sure we’re delivering what is really needed. We have to do this with local expert partners, so we do all of this through a trio partnership model in each area. The only core expertise is our board of directors, our technical football, refugee, and ESOL experts, and our amazing Refugee Advisory Board who meet each month to give us feedback and help us improve our programme delivery.

Bonito: we really congratulate you Djibril for this exciting program and cant wait to see it expand in the future- thanks so much for joining us today!

Djibril: Thanks so much for the platform on such an important day!

 

The story of Slum Soccer began with a moment of unexpected beauty. One rainy afternoon, as Vijay Barse, a sports lecturer, sought shelter under a tree on his way home, his eyes were drawn to a group of children nearby. Despite having nothing but a broken bucket to kick around, they were completely absorbed in the joy of their game-beautifully unaware of the rain falling from above. Their laughter, their energy—it was a powerful display of how sport could spark happiness, even in the most difficult circumstances. In that instant, Vijay’s heart swelled with a profound realization: football had the power to change lives, to bring purpose, unity and  hope to those who needed it most. Moved by this moment, he made a decision that would forever change his path. That very day, the seeds of Slum Soccer were planted.

India, the second most populous nation in the world, has a population of well over a billion people. 170 million of these people live on the streets with no place to call home and account for 17% of the world’s entire slum dwelling population. 260 million people in India, earn less than $1 a day. A sizeable portion of these 170 million people are women and children; and they are denied even the most basic rights of survival and protection.

Slum Soccer is aiming to fill the void and to tackle these problems head on. We sat down with Slum Soccer CEO Abhijeet Barse to discuss how they are doing this using the beautiful game in India.

Bonito: Hi Abhijeet, such an honor to learn more about Slum Soccer today with you.

Abhijeet: Great to take part!

Bonito: Tell us about how your passion for football began and how you were captivated to explore the ways the game could bring about positive changes for society?

Abhijeet: For me it was some years after Vijay founded the organization, I became a part of this journey and witnessed the profound changes football can bring firsthand. I met a parent of one of our participants, who told me how their child’s life had completely transformed after joining our program. From being involved in negative influences and wayward activities, their child became more responsible, focused, and hopeful about the future. This personal encounter affirmed my belief in the power of football as a tool for social change. It’s not just a game; it’s a force that unites and uplifts, turning even the smallest moments into life-changing opportunities.

Bonito: Why do you think football evokes such powerful sentiments with such a broad range of people all over the world?

Abhijeet: I think what makes football so powerful is the spirit of the game—it’s about teamwork, striving toward a common goal, and, most importantly, the sense of equality it creates. When you step onto the field, it doesn’t matter where you come from, what language you speak, or your background; everyone is united by the same rules and opportunities to contribute to the team. For many of the youth we work with, football is their one opportunity to truly feel part of something bigger, to wear a team’s colors with pride, and to be seen as an athlete.

This experience invokes a deep, often dormant, sense of self-worth and identity in them. It’s not just a game—it’s a platform for them to reimagine who they can become, both on and off the field. For young people who may feel marginalized, football breaks down barriers in a way that traditional outreach methods often can’t. It reaches places and hearts that might otherwise be inaccessible, providing a pathway for personal growth, confidence, and hope for the future. The sport’s universality and simplicity make it a tool for connection, making it accessible to communities that may be out of reach for more conventional interventions.

Bonito: We would love to hear about some of the projects that Slum Soccer currently operates!

Abhijeet: We have a lot! Some of my current favorites in no particular order are:

• Shakti Girls: Empowers young girls through football, focusing on menstrual health, sexual reproductive health, and gender equality.

• Playmaker Fellowship: Develops youth leadership through sport-based interventions in underserved communities.

• Deaf Goal Fellowship: Aims to uplift the deaf community through football, promoting inclusion and life skills.

• DeafKidz Goal: Supports deaf children with opportunities to engage in sport and build confidence through football.

• Community Impact Program: Uses sport to address social issues like mental health, climate change, and gender equality at the grassroots level.

• National Inclusion Cup: A national football tournament providing marginalized youth a platform to showcase their talent.
• Schools Program: Promotes physical literacy and leadership through football in low-income schools, integrating education and sport.

Bonito: So many great initiatives, we will set up links above so readers can go in and learn more about each project.

Bonito: Where do you see the football/sport for social good field heading in the next years? Which thematic areas will be most important to deal with and what are the big challenges awaiting sport for good practitioners?

Abhijeet: Sports for social good has been gaining significant mainstream attention in recent years, and I believe this trend will only continue to grow. As more organizations recognize the transformative power of sport, we’ll likely see an increase in initiatives that use sports not just for physical development but for broader societal impact. From empowering marginalized communities to addressing issues like gender equality, education, and mental health, sport will play a crucial role in driving positive change.

In the coming years, key thematic areas that will need attention include inclusion and accessibility. Ensuring that people from all backgrounds—regardless of gender, disability, or socio-economic status—can access sports programs will be vital. Additionally, mental health is emerging as a critical focus, with sports proving to be an effective tool for promoting well-being and building resilience.

However, significant challenges remain for practitioners in this space. Sustainable funding will continue to be a hurdle, as many sports for good programs rely on grants and donations. Another challenge will be scaling successful programs while maintaining their local relevance and impact. Lastly, practitioners must navigate the delicate balance of leveraging sport’s competitive nature while ensuring the primary focus remains on social outcomes, not just athletic success.

Bonito: I think that the point about scaling while maintaining local relevance and authenticity is an extremely interesting area of exploration of practitioners for sure.

Bonito: Can you tell us about a moment in your football  for social good journey that really touched your heart profoundly and stays with you?

Abhijeet: I was visiting one of our slum programs, and after spending some time walking around the community, I found myself lost and hungry. Unsure of what to do next, I decided to sit down for a moment. Almost instantly, I was approached by a local family who, recognizing the Slum Soccer kit I was wearing, kindly offered me refreshments and directions to the field. What struck me the most was when they shared that their son had been attending our sessions. They told me how, through football and the guidance of our coaches, he had overcome his addictions and was now on a positive path. Hearing this firsthand reminded me of the deep, personal impact our programs have on people’s lives. It wasn’t just about the sport—it was about real transformation, hope, and the power of community. That moment profoundly touched me and reaffirmed why we do what we do.

Bonito: Is there one colleague at your organization or who you have collaborated with who maybe doesn’t always get the spotlight that you would like to shine today and why?

Abhijeet: I would like to shine a light on Coach Anas Akhtar, who began his journey with us as a grassroots coach. Since joining, Anas has shown incredible dedication, not only upgrading his coaching license but also stepping into a leadership role where he actively supports and mentors other coaches. His passion for empowering young players and fellow coaches has been inspiring, and his efforts have made a significant impact on both our team and the broader community. Anas’s commitment goes beyond the pitch, embodying the true spirit of development and leadership in sport.

Our vision for the next few years: We are looking at having an even deeper presence in the communities that we work with, involving not just the children and youth but also the parents. We want to have a lifelong engagement with sports for them. We are also looking at improvement on the excellence side of football where we are talking with club and youth academies for our children to be given a chance for selection trials.

Bonito: Abhijeet, its been such a pleasure talking to you and we look forward to keep promoting the beauty of football together in the future.

Abhijeet: Thanks so much and so happy to have Bonito in this arena!

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BIO

Name: Abhijeet Barse

Organization: Slum Soccer

Role: CEO

Favorite Football  for good organization apart from your own: Homeless World Cup and Common Goal

Favorite Football Club: Seemapuri FC