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We are proud to share an important milestone in the journey of our #SportForChange partner, Elvis Nshimba Wa Mwanza, founder of Umoja Sport Foundation in the Democratic Republic of Congo. Elvis has officially been named an Ashoka fellow, joining a global network of leading social entrepreneurs who are creating innovative solutions to some of society’s most pressing challenges. 

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This recognition celebrates years of dedication, leadership, and determination to use sport as a catalyst for positive social change.

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What does it mean to be an Ashoka Fellow?

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Ashoka is one of the world's leading organizations supporting social entrepreneurs. Through its Fellowship program, Ashoka identifies individuals with transformative ideas and the vision, commitment, and ability to create systemic change.

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Being selected as an Ashoka Fellow is far more than receiving an award. It is an acknowledgment that a social entrepreneur's work has the potential to create lasting impact at scale. Ashoka provides Fellows with strategic support, access to a global community of changemakers, and the resources needed to focus on growing their initiatives and amplifying their impact.

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Elvis earned this recognition through his work with Umoja Sport Foundation, where he has been transforming sport into a powerful tool for gender equality. By creating safe and inclusive spaces for girls and boys to play, lead, and grow together, Umoja challenges harmful stereotypes, engages families and communities, and helps make equality visible in everyday life.

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\"SALTO

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A shared dream turning into reality

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For everyone at SALTO FOUNDATION, this achievement is particularly meaningful.

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When we started our partnership with Elvis and Umoja through our Sport for Change program, one of the objectives we discussed together was strengthening the long-term sustainability of the project and helping Elvis gain access to the networks and support needed to expand his impact.

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Today, seeing him become an Ashoka Fellow is a powerful sign of progress. It reflects not only the growth of Umoja Sport Foundation but also Elvis's unwavering commitment to his vision and to the communities he serves.

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Behind every milestone like this are years of hard work, resilience, and belief in the possibility of change. We have witnessed that determination firsthand and are delighted to see it recognized on a global stage.

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\"SALTO

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Looking ahead

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This achievement marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter for Elvis and Umoja Sport Foundation.

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As an Ashoka Fellow, Elvis will have access to new opportunities, knowledge, and connections that can help accelerate the impact of his work. More importantly, it will enable even more children, families, and communities to experience the transformative power of sport.

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We congratulate Elvis on this well-deserved recognition and thank him for inspiring us with his leadership, courage, and dedication.

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We are proud to stand alongside him on this journey and look forward to continuing to create change through sport, together.

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