About Empower Youth Corp
About Us
Empower Youth Corp. (EYC) is a charity organization aimed at improving and sustaining the lives of the underprivileged youth in Uganda and New York City. This initiative was founded by Julius Mutekanga, a Ugandan runner and Olympian based in New York.
Our main objective is to change the livelihood of less fortunate children through sports and activities that enhance their skills - on and off the field. Some of these vital needs are one-on-one coaching, access to sports supplies sponsorships, and logistics needed at sports events, amongst others.
Through Empower Young Corp, young athletes can acquire life-changing opportunities that greatly impact their lives and those of their families. Currently, boys and young men ranging in age from 6-25 years old are trained on a weekly basis in New York City. In addition, both boys and girls are trained & participate on soccer, volleyball, and running teams in Fort Portal, Western Uganda.
We provide an ongoing mentorship program aimed at fostering team spirit, unity, dignity, discipline, and mental wellbeing. EYC also works in partnership with schools to recruit and provide private sessions with these athletes to provide a unique opportunity to identify particular & personal obstacles and provide long-lasting solutions to overcome anything that may hinder them from achieving their full potential.
History and Founder
EYC was founded by Julius Mutekanga, a Ugandan middle-distance runner who competed in the 2012 London Olympics. Raised in Fort Portal, Uganda, and one of fourteen siblings, running was the only sport available that did not impose any financial burden on his family. From the age of seven, he embraced running, an athletic blessing that carried him through to high school. In 2007, his elite abilities led him to represent Uganda at the World University Games in Bangkok, Thailand, where he reached the semifinals in both the 400 and 800 meter distances. Following the World Games, Julius received several athletic scholarship offers from universities in the United States. In January 2008, he accepted an offer at Long Island University (LIU) in Brooklyn, New York, graduating in 2010 with a Bachelor's Degree in Social Work.
Growing up in Uganda, where promising opportunities and resources are scarce, he understood the challenges faced by many people to realize and reach their potential. Julius always says that the Degree he received from LIU was not just for him but for everyone back home who did not have the same opportunity he was given. Instead of pursuing graduate school, he chose to train for the Olympics in 2011. With dedication, education, and a newfound support system at the Central Park Running Club, he qualified for the 2012 Summer Olympics in London. Competing against the greatest athletes in the world inspired him greatly; it motivated Julius to start an initiative aimed at providing sports and athletic programming to underprivileged youth. He knew he wanted to maximize their opportunities just as he had his. Through hard work, discipline, and personal sacrifices, he reached the Olympics.
EYC, under Julius's leadership, aims to inspire and uplift others to achieve their dreams as well.
Our Impact
Since launching the initiative, three boys have earned scholarships to play for high school soccer teams, As EYC strives to have both boys and girls fully invested in improving their lives through sports, we have seen an increase in girls’ participation in running and soccer in Fort Portal as well. Families and communities are drawn to the events in support of the athletes, which helps them gain self-confidence. Propelling these young boys and girls to succeed academically and socially is a founding pillar of EYC. We continue to attract many idle youth who want to improve their lives and we welcome all who will commit to making a difference in their lives and in the lives of those around them.
Help Our Cause and Join Us
Your support and contributions will enable us to meet our goals and fund our mission. Join us!