In the inspiring communities of Kibera and Mathare, football is not just a passion—it’s a common language, a refuge, and a powerful tool for transformation. That’s where the stories of Alex Oduor and Duncan Siro intertwine with the methodology and mission of Fútbol Más Foundation. Although their personal paths are different, they share a deep conviction: sport can transform reality. Today, both are role models for hundreds of children and young people who participate in Fútbol Más sessions in Kenya. This is their story.

Known by his friends and community as “Blacks,” 17-year-old Alex Oduor already plays in Kenya’s National Super League—the second-highest tier of football in the country. Raised by his parents in what he describes as “tough conditions,” he realized early on that the ball could be more than just a passion: it could be a way to change his family’s story.

“My life has been football and I know that it is a way for me to change my world and my environment, ” he says with security.

Alex’s journey with Fútbol Más began like that of thousands of children around the world: first as a direct beneficiary of the program in his community, and later as a youth leader. After going through the leadership training process, he is now a lead coach and runs the socio-sports sessions. “At first, I didn’t know how to express my ideas, but thanks to the sessions I had with Fútbol Más, I have more confidence now and I can speak my mind and share how I feel,” he says proudly.

On the other hand, 19-year-old Duncan Siro has been involved with Fútbol Más for four years. He started as a volunteer in the socio-sports sessions while still in high school. He found in sports a safe space in an adverse environment, as well as a way to grow as a person and as a professional.

“Football is the backbone of my skills as a coach. Taught Me how to communicate, work with children and to face the difficulties of the society”, he says.

In addition to his role as a socio-sports tutor, Duncan plays in Kenya’s third division with Kibra United, balancing his training with the Fútbol Más sessions where he promotes life skills in children through sports.

Both agree on the fundamental role Fútbol Más plays in community development worldwide. “We impact the lives of children through football and by addressing the issues that most affect our community,” says Alex. Duncan, in turn, highlights how the methodological approach creates a holistic environment: “Fútbol Más has brought joy to the children, opportunities to young leaders, and responsibilities to community leaders”.

Fundación Fútbol Más, active since 2008 in more than 10 countries, works to promote safe spaces for children and their communities through sport and play. In Kenya, the work with young leaders like Alex and Duncan is key—not only do they ensure the continuity of sessions on the ground, but they also proudly represent the meaningful, positive impact that an intervention based on play, trust, and professionalism can have.

Both young men balance their careers as footballers with their roles as Fútbol Más Kenya socio-sports tutors. “Having good planning and communication with both sides is essential,” says Alex. Duncan adds, “I manage my time well, because discipline begins with time management.”Their stories are about football, yes. But they’re also about leadership and a powerful belief: that even from a dirt field—like the ones where Fútbol Más runs its programs in Kenya—reality can be transformed. And they are already doing it.