EYC - the Vision
Empower Youth Corp. (EYC) is transforming lives, one young athlete at a time, by supporting underprivileged youth in both Uganda and New York City. Founded by Ugandan Olympian and New York–based runner Julius Mutekanga, EYC harnesses the power of sports to uplift, empower, and equip the next generation with the tools they need to thrive, on and off the field.
At the heart of our mission is a commitment to changing the trajectory of young lives through structured training, mentorship, and holistic support. We focus on essential needs such as one-on-one coaching, access to quality sports gear, event logistics, and sponsorships—ensuring that every child, regardless of their background, has the chance to succeed.
In New York City, boys and young men aged 6 to 25 receive weekly training that fosters not just athletic excellence, but discipline and character. Across the globe in Fort Portal, Western Uganda, both boys and girls take part in competitive soccer, volleyball, and running programs that build teamwork, resilience, and hope.
Beyond physical training, EYC offers an ongoing mentorship program designed to nurture team spirit, dignity, mental well-being, and personal growth. By partnering with local schools, we provide tailored, one-on-one sessions that help identify and overcome personal challenges—empowering youth to reach their full potential and become leaders in their communities.
Empower Youth Corp. isn't just building athletes—it's building futures.
History and Founder
Empower Youth Corp. (EYC) was born from the extraordinary journey of its founder, Julius Mutekanga—a Ugandan middle-distance runner and 2012 Olympian whose life is a testament to perseverance, purpose, and the power of opportunity.
Raised in Fort Portal, Uganda, as one of fourteen children in a modest household, Julius turned to the one sport that cost nothing but offered everything: running. By the age of seven, he was pounding the dirt roads of his hometown—unaware that this simple act would one day carry him across the world. His talent and tenacity propelled him through school, and in 2007, he represented Uganda at the World University Games in Bangkok, reaching the semifinals in both the 400m and 800m events.
His performance caught the attention of U.S. universities, and in 2008, Julius accepted an athletic scholarship to Long Island University in Brooklyn, New York. He earned a Bachelor’s degree in Social Work in 2010—an achievement he proudly dedicates to every young person back home who didn’t have the same opportunity.
Instead of continuing on to graduate school, Julius made a bold choice: to train for the Olympics. With support from the Central Park Running Club and an unyielding work ethic, he qualified for the 2012 Summer Olympics in London, realizing a lifelong dream.
But Julius didn’t stop there.
Competing on the world stage deepened his resolve to give back. He understood firsthand the barriers young people face when opportunity is scarce. Fueled by this awareness, he launched Empower Youth Corp., determined to extend the same life-changing support he received to underprivileged youth in Uganda and New York City.
Under Julius’s leadership, EYC stands not just as an athletic program, but as a movement—built on the belief that with guidance, mentorship, and access, every child can chase their dreams and cross their own finish line.
Julius made it to the Olympics. Now, he's helping others reach their own version of gold.
Our Impact
Since launching, numerous boys have earned scholarships to play high school soccer, compete in track & field in college and continue higher education—all extraordinary steps toward brighter futures. In Uganda, there has been a notable increase in girls’ participation in both soccer and running, a milestone that reflects EYC’s commitment to gender inclusion and empowerment. Local events now draw families and entire communities, offering athletes a platform to showcase their talents and build self-confidence in front of those who matter most.
At its core, EYC is about more than athletics. We foster discipline, unity, mental well-being, and academic achievement through an ongoing mentorship program. We partner with schools to offer tailored support, helping youth overcome personal barriers and realize their full potential. By engaging idle and underserved youth, we open the door to self-improvement and inspire them to invest not just in their own growth, but in the future of their communities.
Empower Youth Corp. isn’t just about playing the game—it’s about changing the game. Under Julius Mutekanga’s leadership, we’re helping young people run toward their dreams, one stride at a time.