Ali Yakubu, a dedicated sports fan, is changing the lives of children and youth in Ghana by helping them discover and develop their talents.
Recognizing the potential in the communities along the beaches of the Central Region, Yakubu founded the Ali Royals football and surfing clubs.
Initially focused on soccer, Yakubu expanded to include surfing after seeing the untapped talent among local kids. His unwavering commitment has already positively impacted many lives through the sport and he aims to continue this transformation with surfing.
During my time with Captain Andy Sam’s Aspire Football Dreams in Ghana, I met Coach Ali Yakubu. Our relationship has gone beyond friendship and together we work to improve sports development in the region.
Yakubu is known for his dedication to hard work, achievement and making the impossible possible. His efforts have benefited many young people, boys and girls. He believes that just as football has changed lives, surfing can bring a new narrative to the historic Central District.
“Kids love it and we are starting a training program to teach them well,” said Yakubu about the surfing initiative in Ghana.
While Yakubu has foreign partners, he is calling on government, the business community, the Ministry of Youth & Sports and the Ministry of Education to support his vision. He believes that surfing, an important sport worldwide, can attract tourists and international competitions to Ghana.
Ali Royals Surf Therapy program is gaining worldwide attention. “A young girl, only 9 years old, is particularly devoted. She loves surfing and aspires to become one of the best surfers in Africa. He attends surfing lessons every day after school,” noted Yakubu.
Ali Royals Surf Therapy is looking for volunteer surf instructors to help support and develop young surfers to their full potential. Yakubu’s initiative aims not only to develop skills but also to create opportunities and inspire a new generation of athletes in Ghana.