What makes a Community Champion?
Helping Society
Away from the pitch, many footballers from around the world have displayed selfless acts of charity that help contribute to a more inclusive and resilient society. FIFPRO's Community Champions series gives players the chance to tell their story.
Across the Globe
FIFPRO highlights Community Champion stories from footballers from every continent, whether players are carrying out volunteerism or philanthropy at home or aboard.
Multiple Endeavours
From humanitarian aid and building medical clinics to shining the light on climate crisis and social issues, FIFPRO aims to profile players who have carried out a diverse range of goodwill, charitable work and bringing about a more inclusive society.
Lennart Thy: "I saved someone’s life with a small gesture"
German striker Lennart Thy was selected Player of the Match for a game in which he didn’t play in 2018, after saving the life of a leukaemia patient by donating stem cells. Thy currently plays for PEC Zwolle in the Dutch second-tier.
FIFPRO Merit Awards: Recognising the contributions of players to society
Nyasha Mushekwi: "Travel is one of the biggest challenges facing African footballers"
Nyasha Mushekwi has played in South Africa, Sweden and Belgium, and currently plays in China for Zhejiang Greentown. The Zimbabwe striker played international basketball before becoming a footballer. To thank the team that gave him his first football contract, Mushekwi bought them a team bus.
Ingrid Stenevik: "I want to use my time to help others"
Ingrid Stenevik is a 27-year-old Norwegian footballer who plays for SK Brann Kvinner (formerly part of Sandviken IF). The club formed the first women’s street team in Norway, aimed at offering those from challenging backgrounds the opportunity to train as part of a team. Ingrid was a pioneering figure in the initiative’s success.
Israil Gurung: "What I know is football – that's how I give back to my community"
Israil Gurung has established a youth training academy in his hometown of Jaigaon, India. The former Churchill Brothers player uses football to create a sense of community for the children who attend, while encouraging them to stay in education for as long as possible
Kevin Dabrowski: "I had to do my bit to help those in Ukraine"
Kevin Dabrowski has been helping AUGB Edinburgh with their efforts in providing relief for the people of Ukraine. The Hibernian F.C. keeper feels a particular affinity to the cause, due to the geographical proximity of the war to his home country of Poland.
