The Betway 12th Man Programme is a continuation of the company’s commitment to meaningful upliftment in football in their African markets and Forwardzone is proud to once again play a role in facilitating another life-changing initiative spearheaded by the globally acclaimed sports betting company, the Betway 12th Man programme concluded in an intimate graduation ceremony in Accra on Saturday, 4 July 2020.
Throughout their Betway 12th Man journey, the legends received valuable insight from industry experts. Most notably, Sports Writer’s Association Ghana (President), Kwabena Yeboah, Ghana Institute of Management Professional’s Senior Consultant, Patrick Andoh, iSpace Foundation’s CEO and co-founder, Josiah Eyison as well as Forwardzone CEO, Ashley Kotzin. These were just some of the experts brought in by Betway to provide insight and discuss relevant football trends.
Not only were they afforded an opportunity to learn new skills, but a renewed sense of hope and self-belief has been imparted in the former footballers who are now looking forward to making a difference in their respective communities. Newly found skills in Entrepreneurship, Project Management, Club Administration and Sport Management amongst other skills acquired over the last five months, sees the former stars better equipped to give back to their communities.
Speaking at the graduation ceremony, Betway Country Manager, Kwabena Oppong-Nkrumah, said the maiden edition exceeded all expectations, stating that Betway takes pride in making a difference in local communities.
As part of their graduation ceremony, the legends received accredited participation certificates for the various workshops.
1995 FIFA U17 World Cup Winner, Awudu Issaka, who currently runs a football club in Ghana, believes that the training he received in sports marketing, club management and administration will come in handy as he strives to move his club to greater heights. The Betway 12th Man legend – popularly known as the “Disco Dancer” – said the knowledge received has given him the confidence to continue working hard to grow football in Ghana.
Betway Brand Ambassador, Stephen Appiah, who played a key role in the selection process and mentoring of the legends, said the programme was a great success, with many highlights and programme learnings.
“Thanks to Betway for this great initiative, it’s been an exciting journey of learning and upliftment for my colleagues and former heroes. I sat through all the sessions and have learnt a lot myself. I am happy to see some of the legends put into practise their newly found skills. Hopefully our legends will go back and implement what they have learnt from the various trainings leading to the growth of our local football,” said Appiah.
While the inaugural edition included 10 individuals, the ripple effect of the programme is set to be far greater than the graduates thanks to the sports betting company’s innovative efforts of community development. Betway would like to thank the participants for their dedication throughout the programme and urge them to go out there and make a difference.