Marcelo motivates slum kids to back talent with education

Marcelo motivates slum kids to back talent with education

The 2016 Kenyan Premier League (KPL) New Player of the Year Eric ‘Marcelo’ Ouma on Saturday advised children of the Mathare 4A to find a balance between their talents and formal education.

Speaking during a handing over of a donation of books courtesy of the “Sober for Books” campaign where he was the special guest, the Gor Mahia FC defender encouraged the young slum dwellers to make good use of the material as they strive to better the future of their local community.

Ouma who grew up in Kibera urged them to follow his lead by defying slum hostilities to achieve his dream of one day completing his education and playing for the national team.

“I encourage you to read these books we have brought you today, and I promise you the results will never be the same again.

“The only way to come out of this slum life into what you always yearn for is by striking a perfect balance between your talent and the books you see on these shelves,” Ouma offered.

The “Sober for Books” founder, Francis Ngira, also born and raised in the slums of Korogocho, Nairobi said that he was encouraged by how Kenyan players have started noticing and using their influence to positively impact on the society.

“I’m encouraged by the trend exhibited in the new crop of Kenyan football stars, they have realized their position in society, and are now undertaking their social responsibility.

“We just need a critical mass of the country’s sportsmen with such a following and influence as “Marcelo’s” to take their rightful role of ushering the upcoming generation into the positive social discourse,” Ngira said.

Ngira – a local live sports cameraman and blogger – founded the charity organisation in his first year after quitting alcohol.

Want to send us a story? Submit on Wananchi Reporting on the Citizen Digital App or Send an email to wananchi@royalmedia.co.ke or Send an SMS to 25170 or WhatsApp on 0743570000

Leave a Comment

Comments

No comments yet.

latest stories