THE movement SERIES

Set up in 2004, Alive and Kicking empowers individuals to impact the lives and livelihoods of those around them. How? By producing footballs, for a start!

The idea to manufacture footballs (or soccer balls, for any of our readers outside of the UK and Europe) was stumbled upon by accident. Ben describes a British teacher based in Kenya, who at the time, noticed that the donated balls arriving from England would barely last a week on the tough pitches of Nairobi.

The possibility of producing a stronger, high-quality ball soon became the perfect opportunity to increase employment in the region for adults and vulnerable youth groups. Over the years, these production centres in the sub-Saharan region have grown through relationships with local organisations. Today, Alive and Kicking employs over 100 individuals, many of whom are navigating a disability, or have never been to school or experienced formal employment.

What follows is nothing short of life-changing. The experience of consistent employment creates greater security at home, financial independence, access to healthcare and even the tools to start or return to formal education.

What’s even more impressive about this process is the quality and sustainable nature of their production. Each ball is handmade and created from locally sourced materials, such as up-cycled leather. Old airline chairs and car seats are transformed, creating a football that lasts eight times longer than the standard commercial version, whilst still meeting professional standards.