The Sports APPRENTICE BOOTCAMP
The Sports Apprentice is a global mentorship and career development platform
The Sports APPRENTICE BOOTCAMP
The Sports Apprentice is a global mentorship and career development platform
Who We Are
Our Story
The Sports Apprentice began in November 2019, just a few months before Covid-19 and over the last 5 years, has evolved into a veritable platform for Sports industry mentorship for Africa.
A global Sports mentorship and career development platform. The Sports Apprentice is designed to provide real life sports industry experiential learning and development for young people looking to find a job in sports, create sports businesses or mid-career professionals wanting to switch to a career in sports.
Our Values
We believe in honesty, integrity, and respect for all. We are committed to providing our mentees with accurate and unbiased information, insights, and to fostering a welcoming and inclusive community.
The Sports Apprentice Impact
The beauty of the Sports Apprentice is the impact it has on the lives of every participant.
All of them have inspiring stories to share and we keep up with them as they continue to inspire others who either want to work in the sports industry or those who want to create sports businesses.
THE story of jane dunta mwemba from zaMBIA
JANE DUNTA MWEMBA ON SUPERSPORT DUTY
JANE DUNTA MWEMBA, host of the FIFA Women's World Cup Trophy Tour in Zambia
JANE DUNTA MWEMBA, host of the FIFA Women's World Cup Trophy Tour in Zambia
Jane has become well known across the continent as one of the SuperSport Presenters and analyst for live broadcast of the Zambia Super League
• Jane worked as a media officer for Zambia at the U17 Girls COSAFA Tournament in South Africa.
• She moderated at the 2023 FIFA WOMEN’S WORLD CUP TROPHY TOUR in Lusaka, Zambia.
• She is currently
Jane has become well known across the continent as one of the SuperSport Presenters and analyst for live broadcast of the Zambia Super League
• Jane worked as a media officer for Zambia at the U17 Girls COSAFA Tournament in South Africa.
• She moderated at the 2023 FIFA WOMEN’S WORLD CUP TROPHY TOUR in Lusaka, Zambia.
• She is currently a Sports Anchor for a local radio Station as I host a live Sports show for two hours every weekend.
JANE DUNTA MWEMBA, host of the FIFA Women's World Cup Trophy Tour in Zambia
JANE DUNTA MWEMBA, host of the FIFA Women's World Cup Trophy Tour in Zambia
JANE DUNTA MWEMBA, host of the FIFA Women's World Cup Trophy Tour in Zambia
In 2023, Jane Anchored the Zambia leg of the FIFA Women's World Cup Trophy Tour in Lusaka, Zambia
IN THE WORDS OF JANE DUNTA MWEMBA
JANE DUNTA MWEMBA, host of the FIFA Women's World Cup Trophy Tour in Zambia
IN THE WORDS OF JANE DUNTA MWEMBA
"My Name is Jane Dunta Mwemba a freelance Sports broadcaster and Writer based in Lusaka, Zambia.
I was part of the 2020 Sports Apprentice programme alongside other students from various countries like Botswana and Nigeria."
" My experience was really life changing in the sense that i was exposed to new ways of making a Living out of it.
A
"My Name is Jane Dunta Mwemba a freelance Sports broadcaster and Writer based in Lusaka, Zambia.
I was part of the 2020 Sports Apprentice programme alongside other students from various countries like Botswana and Nigeria."
" My experience was really life changing in the sense that i was exposed to new ways of making a Living out of it.
After that training a number of opportunities came my way such as. "
THE STORY OF BONGANI MALUNGA FROM BOTSWANA
BONGANI MALUNGA
A Vital Platform for Africa
A Vital Platform for Africa
Bongani Malunga is a well known Journalist from Botswana and he participated in the Sports Apprentice Botcamp where he shared insights into how he wrote his book.
He was able to promote his work and over the last three years has been working on another book.
He talks about his experience on the Sports Apprentice and why others should embrace the platform.
A Vital Platform for Africa
A Vital Platform for Africa
A Vital Platform for Africa
The Sports Apprentice Program is a vital platform that has helped me get access to a broader network of industry peers and experts who have helped improve my approach to sports reporting after exchanging notes with them.
The platform gives one a chance to not only present themselves to a collective of creative minds, it also gives one a
The Sports Apprentice Program is a vital platform that has helped me get access to a broader network of industry peers and experts who have helped improve my approach to sports reporting after exchanging notes with them.
The platform gives one a chance to not only present themselves to a collective of creative minds, it also gives one a greater appreciation of various ways of improving data collection, creating a digital presence and creating contacts around the continent.
I got an opportunity to share insights about my 2018 book called Why An African Team May Never Win the World Cup. solutions that meet their unique needs.
A Global Network
A Vital Platform for Africa
A Global Network
The presentation session led me to a new audience as the sports journalists in the platform invited me to their respective TV and radio shows, this boosted sales of my book in ways that left a lasting impression.
Working with the Program Facilitator, Emeka Enyadike provides a life long benefit due to his open approach, his incredible wea
The presentation session led me to a new audience as the sports journalists in the platform invited me to their respective TV and radio shows, this boosted sales of my book in ways that left a lasting impression.
Working with the Program Facilitator, Emeka Enyadike provides a life long benefit due to his open approach, his incredible wealth of knowledge in the sports industry and his vast global network that opens the door for his mentors to expand their portfolios to areas they were previously not exposed to.
Mr Emeka is a supportive guide who ensures that he adds the human element in his teachings, that sets him apart from other mentors. His selfless nature rubs off on his mentors as he always preaches humility and teamwork.
I have been in the sports industry for over 15 years and I have ventured into writing books in order to expand my offerings. I believe mentorship is important because we should always be coach-able as we can always learn as we go along.
My advice to anyone interested in the Sports Apprentice platform is that they should always be active in the platform, always switched on, be present and they should not hesitate to ask questions because they will interact with industry experts on many occasions. The second bit of advice would be to create a digital footprint, be seen in order to attract the right audience to display your talents. Lastly, be open to learning as the platform is the best experience for any budding sports journalists.
BOMA WILLIE-PEPPLE & BOMSY WALL TENNIS FROM NIGERIA
BOMSY WALL TENNIS - A NEW SPORT INVENTED IN NIGERIA
Bomsy Wall Tennis is a new racquet sport in Africa, and it is quickly gaining ground in Nigeria where the creator and founder, Boma Willie-Peeple has been pushing his agenda to reach the Olympic Games with his concept.
Boma joined The Sports Apprentice's Sports Innovation Hub in May 2024 with his ideas and concept, and over the next six months, the world is beginning to appreciate the sport.
Boma explains the process:
"After years of inspirational meditation, research, testing and refinement, BWT was developed to address the need for a moderately-spaced, medium-intensity racquet sport that appeals to players of all ages, gender and skill levels. "
BOMA WILLIE-PEPPLE, CREATOR & FOUNDER, BOMSY WALL TENNIS
Boma Willie-Pepple has a very diverse background in numerous disciplines with multiple qualifications and a lot of public sector experiences
BOMSY WALL TENNIS - THE SPORT
Bomsy Wall Tennis is an exciting variant of racquet games played with racquet and balls similar to those of tennis. It utilizes very little space and can be played in the comfort of a home space. It is an excellent space management game. Anyone with a walled fence has the opportunity of playing the game.
It provides amazing health benefits ranging from neuro-optic to hand/foot coordination. The objective of the game is to earn scores by hitting the ball on numbered targets strategically placed on a wall. The star target numbers of 3, 5 and 7 earn the player multiple scores. The mathematical engagement of BWT codes make it dynamic, addictive, socially engaging and a mind development game.
BWT aims at becoming a most sort after racquet sport fostering a global community of players who value social interaction, physical fitness and competitive fun. Our vision is to make BWT accessible to everyone regardless of age or skill level and to have it played as a competitive sport in the Olympics.
HOW THE SPORTS APPRENTICE HELPED TO FAST TRACK OUR DEVELOPMENT
"To us Sports Apprentice can simply be described as the Oxygen that has fuelled the existence and phenomenal growth of BWT. The initial concept of BWT though exciting with the potential to be a global brand lacked the necessary guidance of to advance in the world of sports as a new invention.
The Sport Apprentice has been a phone call away in directing us on the next best step to take in developing the brand to be a successful global sport business in the 21st Century."
"Apprenticeship is about mentorship and the life wire for any serious minded individual or group that desires to succeed in any area of life. it offers learning from the vast experiences of others and leverages on their Network."
"I will say this for free to anyone who has a sports business idea or want to go into sports business entrepreneurship and desires to be a global brand to first see the possibilities with boldness in their mind’s eyes. With that vision take the next necessary stop by registering with the Sports Apprentice mentorship programme. you certainly will be guided hands on. "
THE STORY OF MARTHA ASHLEY NAKAZWE FROM ZAMBIA
MARTHA ASHLEY NAKAZWE is based in Johannesburg, South Africa, a pioneer member of The Sports Apprentice Class of 2020
MARTHA ASHLEY is now a regular feature on Africa's biggest Football show, SOCCER AFRICA on SUPERSPORT alongside Veterans like Thomas Mlambo, Thomas "TK" Kwenaite, Suddesh Singh and Mamadou Gaye
MARTHA ASHLEY is now a regular feature on Africa's biggest Football show, SOCCER AFRICA on SUPERSPORT alongside Veterans like Thomas Mlambo, Thomas "TK" Kwenaite, Suddesh Singh and Mamadou Gaye
"My name is Martha Ashley Nakazwe, I am originally from Mufulira Zambia (very proud of where I come from).
I have always wanted to work in Sport and after working on numerous brand activations centred around Football at my previous place of employment, I decided to take a leap and get into Football Journalism. "
MARTHA ASHLEY is now a regular feature on Africa's biggest Football show, SOCCER AFRICA on SUPERSPORT alongside Veterans like Thomas Mlambo, Thomas "TK" Kwenaite, Suddesh Singh and Mamadou Gaye
MARTHA ASHLEY is now a regular feature on Africa's biggest Football show, SOCCER AFRICA on SUPERSPORT alongside Veterans like Thomas Mlambo, Thomas "TK" Kwenaite, Suddesh Singh and Mamadou Gaye
MARTHA ASHLEY is now a regular feature on Africa's biggest Football show, SOCCER AFRICA on SUPERSPORT alongside Veterans like Thomas Mlambo, Thomas "TK" Kwenaite, Suddesh Singh and Mamadou Gaye
Mentorship is super important. A lot of us are lost and need guidance, especially if you do not come directly from a journalism background. Another reason I think mentorship is important is because there are so many job in sport that one can pick from other than journalism, so unless you are properly mentored, it's not so easy to see b
Mentorship is super important. A lot of us are lost and need guidance, especially if you do not come directly from a journalism background. Another reason I think mentorship is important is because there are so many job in sport that one can pick from other than journalism, so unless you are properly mentored, it's not so easy to see beyond journalism.
Oh wow, the Sports Apprentice. An incredible learning and networking platform. I had an incredible experience throughout the program. Took away a lot of insightful tools that I have to this day carried on applying.
HER VIEWS ON THE SPORTS APPRENTICE AND THE VALUE OF MENTORSHIP
MARTHA ASHLEY is now a regular feature on Africa's biggest Football show, SOCCER AFRICA on SUPERSPORT alongside Veterans like Thomas Mlambo, Thomas "TK" Kwenaite, Suddesh Singh and Mamadou Gaye
HER VIEWS ON THE SPORTS APPRENTICE AND THE VALUE OF MENTORSHIP
I personally like to think of Emeka’s approach to mentorship as patient. He takes time in knowing us individually and gives great advise and constructive criticism.
5&6 . The fact that the program is Pan-African makes it worthwhile. I have been able to build solid networks with a couple of the participants and guest speakers. It has help
I personally like to think of Emeka’s approach to mentorship as patient. He takes time in knowing us individually and gives great advise and constructive criticism.
5&6 . The fact that the program is Pan-African makes it worthwhile. I have been able to build solid networks with a couple of the participants and guest speakers. It has helped me navigate my journey smoothly by making it easy for me to connect with industry colleagues from various part of continent whom we share first hand information such as breaking news tournaments and players well fare in va leagues across the continen.
7.Its been 4 years already? God has been faithful, I have been a part of numerous events but I am most proud of covering my first Women’s AFCON tournament in Morocco 2022, still have goals of covering the Olympics and the World Cup on my bucket list. In 4 years I have been able to strike a balance in pursing both my passions. I am a Team Manager at Football Club while still covering Women’s Football as a Journalist and living my dream by sitting next to my icons on the biggest African Football TV Show - Soccer Africa in Supersport.
8. My advise really is for the participants to be open to learning and not to focus much on the exciting activities our jobs in Sport offer, but more on building a sustainable career path and creating lasting relationships within the industry.
MARTHA HAS TransforMED FROM AN ASPIRING JOURNALIST TO ONE OF THE EMERGING VOICES IN AFRICAN FOOTBALL
THE STORY OF AKINYELU OLAJIDE FROM NIGERIA
AKINYELU OLAJIDE, MANAGER, GBAGADA FOOTBALL CLUB
Akinyelu Olajide is the founder of one of the most colourful football Clubs in Nigeria.
Yelu also double as the Club's Manager and Head Coach, but it is the quality of their presentation that marks them out as a model for how to build a football club from the community.
GBAGADA FOOTBALL CLUB
"Having Someone guide you in an unknown territory is always advantage. I spent three to four years just playing around and my Club didn't really have a direction
"If I had this opportunity earlier then obviously, the result would have been better.
However, I was glad to be part of the Sports Apprentice because it's never too late to get back on the right track with help of a mentor."
Yelu's vision for Gbagada Football Club is summed up in these quotes:
'Everyone involved in the football community from the footballers, coaches, officials, stakeholders, administrators, media etc. We have to work together and build a solid future for the development of football in Nigeria'.
'Football commercialisation and branding is a topmost necessity for a well and notable representation of our football outfits to the commercial community. Development in itself will be rapid with an influx of commercial investors within the sector'.
The administrative arm of the football sector is a vital part of the growth of any football federation. We have to make sure that qualified personnel are in positions of policies and decision making for an accountable and sustainable development'.
THE STORY OF DONALD KIMICH FROM NIGERIA
DONALD KIMICH
GEORGE ESSIEN SPEAKS ABOUT THE ROLE OF MENTORSHIP IN THE EVOLUTION OF DONALD KIMICH
DONALD WITH "MIGHTY GEORGE" ON VANDREZZER FC LIVE COMMENTARY
We discovered Donald Kimich on Social media, after he posted a football commentary Video that was trending. He was the only participant who didn't apply for The Sports Apprentice.
We brought him into the program and subsequently, facilitated his employment by Vandrezzer FC where he was mentored by ace Sports Presenter and Commentator, Geor
We discovered Donald Kimich on Social media, after he posted a football commentary Video that was trending. He was the only participant who didn't apply for The Sports Apprentice.
We brought him into the program and subsequently, facilitated his employment by Vandrezzer FC where he was mentored by ace Sports Presenter and Commentator, George Essien popularly known as "Mighty George"
Donald went from trying to get noticed on social media to becoming one of the voices of the most dynamic sports Clubs on the continent.
This is the stuff of dreams, a fairytale and perhaps one of the enduring stories of the Sports Apprentice platform
DONALD WITH "MIGHTY GEORGE" ON VANDREZZER FC LIVE COMMENTARY
GEORGE ESSIEN SPEAKS ABOUT THE ROLE OF MENTORSHIP IN THE EVOLUTION OF DONALD KIMICH
DONALD WITH "MIGHTY GEORGE" ON VANDREZZER FC LIVE COMMENTARY
"I've had the privilege of witnessing Donald Kimich's remarkable growth as a commentator during his time at Vandrezzer FC. "
"His development has been nothing short of impressive, albeit painstaking. Transitioning from running fun commentaries for European football to doing it professionally for local football, required adaptability and
"I've had the privilege of witnessing Donald Kimich's remarkable growth as a commentator during his time at Vandrezzer FC. "
"His development has been nothing short of impressive, albeit painstaking. Transitioning from running fun commentaries for European football to doing it professionally for local football, required adaptability and dedication."
"Looking back, Donald's story is one of resilience and determination. He faced challenges, but never lost focus. His grit and perseverance are essential qualities for success in this field. As his mentor, it's fulfilling to see him navigate obstacles and emerge stronger."
GEORGE ESSIEN SPEAKS ABOUT THE ROLE OF MENTORSHIP IN THE EVOLUTION OF DONALD KIMICH
GEORGE ESSIEN SPEAKS ABOUT THE ROLE OF MENTORSHIP IN THE EVOLUTION OF DONALD KIMICH
GEORGE ESSIEN SPEAKS ABOUT THE ROLE OF MENTORSHIP IN THE EVOLUTION OF DONALD KIMICH
"Mentorship played a pivotal role in Donald's journey, just as it did in mine. As a product of mentorship, I understand its value. Mentorship provides a dual perspective, allowing mentees to learn from experienced professionals and gain invaluable insights. "
In an industry increasingly threatened by polarization, mentorship ensures accur
"Mentorship played a pivotal role in Donald's journey, just as it did in mine. As a product of mentorship, I understand its value. Mentorship provides a dual perspective, allowing mentees to learn from experienced professionals and gain invaluable insights. "
In an industry increasingly threatened by polarization, mentorship ensures accuracy and excellence.
It fosters personal growth, technical skills, and industry knowledge. Donald's experience exemplifies the impact of guidance and support. I'm proud to have played a part in his development, and I'm excited to see his continued growth.
That said, he is still on the journey to become an established football commentator that can easily fit into top tier league and ultimately, international match commentaries.
His eyes on the ball, it can be achieved.
THE STORY OF SYLVIA IWONG UGI FROM NIGERIA
SYLVIA IWONG UGI
Nigeria Football Legends Tour
FOOTBALL BUSINESS ACADEMY
Sylvia Iwong Ugi was already working as a Sports Presenter on Radio when She participated in the Sports Apprentice Bootcamp. Since then, she has made more in roads into Sports management and sports event management, and She recently graduated from the Football Business Academy with a Masters degree in Football Business.
FOOTBALL BUSINESS ACADEMY
Nigeria Football Legends Tour
FOOTBALL BUSINESS ACADEMY
Sylvia admitted that She can do more in the sports industry than just presenting sports and football on Radio, and in her words:
" I am Super pumped to be part of the sports Apprenticeship program. What I have learnt here they don't teach it at Harvard business school. "
Nigeria Football Legends Tour
Nigeria Football Legends Tour
Nigeria Football Legends Tour
Sylvia transitioned from a Sports Presenter on Radio to one of the most effective sports event organizers in Nigeria.
She organized numerous Football matches involving the most famous Nigerian football Legends.
She also organized a Legends Tour with the former international Stars travelling the country to play games
THE STORY AND A Q&A WITH ANGEL SALT FROM NIGERIA
ANGEL SALT AJAYI
F8Ballers & Other Projects
ANGEL SALT AJAYI
Angel Salt is a distinguished professional football star, educator, and social impact advocate dedicated to transforming the lives of young athletes. Salt is a proud graduate of the University of Lagos and the National Institute for Sports who stands at the forefront of creating pathways for aspiring footballers, particularly those from
Angel Salt is a distinguished professional football star, educator, and social impact advocate dedicated to transforming the lives of young athletes. Salt is a proud graduate of the University of Lagos and the National Institute for Sports who stands at the forefront of creating pathways for aspiring footballers, particularly those from marginalized and disadvantaged communities.
His career in sports started from the streets of Lagos and has gone through the four walls of educational institution, tested by successes and failures, and is now heading for the skies.
Mentorship
F8Ballers & Other Projects
ANGEL SALT AJAYI
How important is mentorship to the development of a career in the sports industry
A saying goes, ‘Scarred generals have a lot to teach naïve soldiers.’ I believe that mentorship is a lifeline for growing ventures. In the sports space, the transition speed is fast and the ecosystem is fast changing with technological advancements and the
How important is mentorship to the development of a career in the sports industry
A saying goes, ‘Scarred generals have a lot to teach naïve soldiers.’ I believe that mentorship is a lifeline for growing ventures. In the sports space, the transition speed is fast and the ecosystem is fast changing with technological advancements and the old-age experiences. Mentorship will make sustainability a possibility in the sports space.
Tell us about the Sports Apprentice and what you experience was with the Program?
The Sports Apprentice is a rich platform. I learnt from global minds. I was in the classrooms with other incredible young people across Africa. That was the catch for me. The programme covered range of broad topics around sports media, sports law, sports scouting and the education pathway.
You were a part of the group mentored by the Sports Apprentice project Director, Emeka Enyadike, how would you describe his approach?
He’s a visionary veteran in the football space. A gentleman and passionate leader who wants African football to develop with a development approach. Glad I am part of his mentorship.
F8Ballers & Other Projects
F8Ballers & Other Projects
F8Ballers & Other Projects
- How did that shape your F8ballers project?
It’s Africa’s best developmental football system committed to nurturing young talent across all age groups—ranging from 3 to 21 years. F8ballers Africa serves as a launchpad for players, guiding them toward professional opportunities while equipping them with essential life skills.
- Tell us abo
- How did that shape your F8ballers project?
It’s Africa’s best developmental football system committed to nurturing young talent across all age groups—ranging from 3 to 21 years. F8ballers Africa serves as a launchpad for players, guiding them toward professional opportunities while equipping them with essential life skills.
- Tell us about F8Ballers and what the project represents, progress and future goals?
Our major goal has been to recreate elite experiences to grassroots players in order to bridge the gap between the two. The project is the pathway to professional and balanced life where football skills and life skills are taught simultaneously. That is why our training programmes are globally tailored. We will build the City of Champions to accommodate and develop the very best of African talent and export them to the top leagues in the world.
Six years down the line, how is the project going?
We have now transitioned from a junior academy to a Nationwide League Team, and soon we are heading to be NPFL and hope to compete at continental and global levels. Apart from F8ballers Africa Football Academy, I have explored other values through Angel Salt Foundation with timely events such as The Big Sunday Game Special, The Chams Cup and Project Wakapass. Inspired by the insights from The Sports Apprentice, I realize that consistent positive engagement can help to secure the future of African football at all levels. It’s about creating support systems to ensure sustainability and high level of competitiveness towards global relevance.
What is your advice for the next generation of Sports Apprentice participants?
That they should take advantage of this opportunity of learning and connect with other brilliant young minds. The Sports Apprentice will become one of the strongest sports communities in Africa, where else should anyone with passion for sports be?
