In the first of a series of interviews with the Futurestars team we talk to Silas Donkoh. Silas has been our lead coach since we first started offering football and PE coaching at five schools in Tema back in 2015, so has been with us from the beginning!
Silas, it’s been 10 years, can you tell us what first inspired you to become a sports coach, and how did you get involved with Futurestars?
My inspiration to become a sports coach stems from my deep passion for sports, particularly football. Throughout my school years, I actively participated in various sporting activities, which further shaped my interest in coaching. I was first introduced to this project by Emmanuel (Futurestars Country Manager) who observed me coaching a school team during an inter-schools competition. He was impressed by the team’s organisation, discipline, and determination, which reflected my coaching approach and commitment to youth development.
Can you describe a typical day at a partner school?
On a typical school day, I organise pre-school football sessions for both boys and girls, conduct netball sessions for girls, and oversee general physical education activities for all students. Depending on the school calendar and term activities, I also scout for talented pupils and build teams to represent the school in various sporting competitions.
How do you think the provision of sports coaching has impacted the confidence of our students and what other skills do they gain in addition to sports skills?
The provision of sports coaching has significantly impacted our students by building their confidence and teaching essential life skills such as discipline, team work, resilience, and self-esteem. These qualities not only enhance their performance in sport also contribute positively to their personal growth and academic life.
How does sport keep children engaged in school and what has the impact been on attendance??
Sport gives children something positive to look forward to. Even though many of our sessions take place early in the morning and are voluntary, attendance is always high. Children are excited to come to school on time because they don’t want to miss training. This enthusiasm improves punctuality, attendance and overall engagement with school life.
How have you been able to ensure that girls are included?
I make a deliberate effort to ensure girls are fully included in all activities. Girls are encouraged equally, given the same opportunities and supported to build confidence. We have girls’ football and netball teams in all five schools in Tema and girls come to our after-school development centre twice a week for training.
Some children are dealing with extreme hardship, how do you personally deal with this and how are we as a charity able to support them?
I approach every child with empathy and understanding. Listening and encouraging them often makes the difference. It can be emotionally challenging but when I suspect extreme hardship, I personally carry out background checks, speak to the teachers and will often follow up by visiting their homes before I approach my line manager on such issues.
Futurestars step-in to provide support such as shelter, medical expenses, school supplies, food, support and referrals when needed.
Can you give us an example of one of your biggest challenges doing this work?
One of the biggest challenges is seeing the difficulties or hardship the children face such as starving, worn out uniforms, shoes, bags and lack of educational supplies.
What have you learnt from the children you’ve worked with over the last 10 years
The children have taught me hope, resilience and humility. I have learnt that talent exists everywhere and, with the right support, encouragement and opportunity, children can achieve amazing things. They have also taught me that small acts of kindness and consistency can have a lasting impact.
Can you share a specific moment that made you sure that your work was making a real difference?
The most powerful moment is seeing children who were once shy grow in confidence Watching former students (Caleb and Ellen) assisting me to train young ones reminds me that the impact goes beyond football it’s about shaping lives and futures.
What difference do our donors make? and what would you say to someone considering donating or volunteering with Futurestars?
Donors make everything we do possible! Their support provides equipment, coaching, school refurbishments and safe opportunities for children to grow. To anyone considering donating or volunteering I would say your contribution truly changes lives. You become part of a journey that gives children hope, confidence, a safe environment and a brighter future.
