Favor Football Academy in the Slums of Kibera

Olé! Olé! Olé! Ki-be-ra, let's go!

The football club launched at Favor School in March 2025. Before that, the kids played with a ball made of torn plastic bags tied together with old string — barefoot, across ditches, garbage heaps, broken glass, and rocks. We took that raw energy and gave it direction.
We rented a field and leveled it ourselves. At first, the players trained in their school uniforms and everyday shoes. But the enthusiasm was limitless — they ran like the wind, listened to every word from the coach, and their eyes were on fire.

Club opening

First training sessions

Real footballs arrived

…and the first chocolate medals

First kit

First cleats

The kids train under Ali Doik, a professional coach from Nairobi. He founded two youth football clubs in Nairobi and previously ran a football school in Germany. He grew up in the slums himself — which is exactly why he cares so deeply about this club and genuinely believes in its success.

"Red and gold!" — that was the unanimous answer when we asked the players to choose their kit colors and design. Done. Goalkeepers wear blue. With the support of a sponsor, we ordered two sets each: one for training, one for away matches and future friendly games.
A new red-and-gold football kit is nothing less than wings on your back.
And these are the first professional cleats we bought for the kids. We found end-of-stock options — much more affordable, but still quality gear, and every pair fits perfectly. With cleats, that really matters.

And these are the first professional cleats we bought for the kids. We found end-of-stock options — much more affordable, but still quality gear, and every pair fits perfectly. With cleats, that really matters.

After six months of training, the Favor players competed in their first official away tournament. Three clubs took part. Their opponents were the same age but had far more competitive experience. The results were respectable — not a single shutout. Our team lost three matches, but fought hard and kept the margins close. The proudest moment: a draw. The kids actually scored goals — and that's already a result.

A professional pitch in the capital. Four clubs competing. We — the Favor Football Academy — were both participants and co-organizers. Fresh kits. Professional cleats. We didn't take the main trophy, but we caught the attention of local youth league leadership — and put the spotlight on football in the slums.

Improved physical fitness for children
Healthy recreation (alternatives in the slums are scarce)
A way out from the temptations and dangers of the streets
A "social elevator" — a real chance to break out of the slums