Ball mishap led to formation of youth initiative

Mariam Mpaata, the founder and programme director of Junior Stars Youth Development Programme, was a nominee for the Top 40 women in 2015. PHOTO| COURTESY

What you need to know:

  • Financially no, but emotionally it is worth a million dollars. We depend a lot on the goodwill of the community.

  • I am tasked to source for sponsors and it is not easy. But the progress we have made keeps us going. 

Tell us about yourself

I have a natural gift with young people. I am literally a magnet to them such that my home is like a social centre. I am a published poet and becoming an author is one of my deepest love.

How did you feel when you were nominated for the Top 40 women?

It was exciting yet scary because I didn’t understand what it really meant. Later, after digesting the meaning and impact, it continues to be very humbling.

Why were you nominated? 

Because of the organisation’s work and impact.

Why did you start the Junior Stars programme? 

Being a house wife for seven years, I found myself religiously following my then seven-year-old son through his every passion. But the most prominent was his love for football, until one day he kicked his ball onto the windscreen of our neighbour’s Mercedes Benz. After paying for it, I had a turning point.

On April 8, 2008, we started a football programme for 15 boys from different religions, tribes, and economic backgrounds. 

Tell us about the programme?

We currently engage in Junior Stars Football Academy, Watoto Africa Soccer Awards, Girl Power Mentorship Summits, Junior Stars Sports Magazine, Youth Mentorship Summits, and Soccer Divas Club. We have more than 50,000 youth.

What criteria do you use in picking youth for the programme?

It is our culture never to discriminate against any child.

What were you doing before?

After graduating with a degree in Development Studies from Makerere University, Uganda, in 2002, I ended up being a housewife in a new country. Life is unpredictable, but I strongly believe God puts people in uniquely challenging situations. I have no regrets for being unemployed all those years and jumping straight into community work.

Does it pay?

Financially no, but emotionally it is worth a million dollars. We depend a lot on the goodwill of the community. I am tasked to source for sponsors and it is not easy. But the progress we have made keeps us going. 

What is your day like?

My day begins at 5am with a crazy, adventurous routine. I have four school-going children, whom I have to prepare within an hour. My workload depends on the projects lined up. On Wednesday evening, you will find me with Soccer Divas playing football.

What does your job entail in the programme?

Designing projects that sell our agenda, which is to empower the youth through football and mentorship. I source for sponsorship and partnership for the organisation.

What are the challenges you encounter?

The biggest has been the overwhelming need among underprivileged children.

What are your aspirations?

To set up a cosmopolitan sports centre, one where children can enjoy world class sports and mentorship services. I am also writing a book, Boots Don’t Lie, about my life and work.

What else do you do?

I am with the Rotary Club of Mombasa, in charge of Youth projects. Recently, I started a football club for amateur women players, called Soccer Divas Club.

How does this programme help the youth?

It offers them opportunities to nurture their football skills, leaving them with no time for social evils. We have a soccer education fund through which we connect sponsors to young footballers. Currently, we have 15 success stories.

What drives you?

Seeing young people become better persons. 

What has brought the most joy in your life?

The growth of the organisation from 15 boys in a dusty field to interacting with over 50,000 youth.

What do you do for fun?

I seem to have fun all the time. I am doing everything I ever wanted to do.

Where would you like to go for holiday?

On a road trip from Kenya to Uganda. 

Who has had the greatest influence in your life?

My mother taught me what it means to have a big heart. My late father’s passion for keeping a journal opened my eyes to the world of poetry and writing. 

How is your family life?

I have been married for 17 years to Kassim Mpaata. We have four children.