About Empower Youth Corp
About Us
Mutekanga.org is focused on improving the lives of underprivileged youth in Uganda and in New York City, my adopted home. Through personal coaching, access to sports supplies, sponsorships, and transportation to and from competitive events, youth gain access to life-changing opportunities that can have a great impact on their lives and for their families. I currently coach eight boys, ages 6 – 25, each week in New York City; I have organized three soccer teams, two volleyball teams, one netball team, and one running team in Fort Portal, Uganda. Team sports provide a mentoring opportunity and foster of sense of team spirit, unity, dignity, discipline, and achievement, in addition to improving physical, mental, and emotional health. As a personal coach, one-on-one or small group sessions provide a unique opportunity to identify specific obstacles and aid youth to overcome anything that may hinder them from achieving their full potential.
History and Founder
I am Julius Mutekanga, 2012 Ugandan Olympic athlete. I grew up in Fort Portal, Uganda, where running was the only sport I could participate in at no cost to my family. So, from seven years old, I began to run. I continued to run until high school, and in 2007, I was selected to represent Uganda at the World University Games in Thailand, Bangkok. I reached the semifinals in the 400 and 800 meters run. After that, many United States universities offered me athletic scholarships, permitting me to continue my education in the United States. January 2008, I arrived at Long Island University, in Brooklyn, New York, and in 2010, I graduated with my Bachelor’s in Social Work. In Uganda, where I am from, opportunities and resources are severely limited, and this hinders many from reaching their full potential. So, I feel like I earned this degree for everyone back home who could not. In 2011, I decided to train for the Olympics instead of going to graduate school. Due to perseverance, education, and support from the Central Park Running Club, I qualified for the 2012 Summer Olympics in London. I found myself competing against world-class athletes. I was inspired by meeting Olympians in track and field, soccer, basketball, tennis, golf, and swimming – I can go on and on. I reached the Olympics with hard work, discipline, and personal sacrifice, and I now want to inspire others. So, I launched an initiative to maximize the opportunity for underprivileged youth through sports and athletic Programming.
Our Impact
Since launching the initiative, three boys have earned scholarships to play for high school soccer teams, I’ve seen an increase in girls’ participation in running and soccer in my hometown. Families and communities are drawn to the events in support of the participating youth. Also, many of the boys have gained self-confidence, which propels them to succeed academically and socially. We continue to attract many idle youth who want to improve their lives. I welcome all who will commit to making a difference in their lives and in the lives of those around them.
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Help Our Cause
Your support and contributions will enable us to meet our goals and fund our mission.