Ahead of his maiden Indian Super League campaign with Chennaiyin FC, Rwanda international Emmanuel Imanishimwe is giving back to his community by running the Bright Football Academy in Kigali.
Chennaiyin FC’s new signing Emmanuel Imanishimwe is preparing for his maiden Indian Super League (ISL) season, but his impact extends far beyond the pitch. The 31-year-old Rwanda international has co-founded the Bright Football Academy in Kigali alongside former national-team colleague Dany Usengimana, providing opportunities for around 120 young children who endearingly refer to him as "president."
The academy operates by offering free training, clothing, and equipment to children handpicked through trials in Kigali, while those who enrol on their own pay a nominal fee. Heading the initiative is Eric Habimana, the coach who trained Emmanuel during his youth.
Speaking about his motivation to give back, Emmanuel said: "The person who coached me when I was young (Eric Habimana) is now heading our academy. I wanted to do something for him… I want the youngsters to be successful. That is why I am doing everything I can." He added: "We select players from Kigali to come to our academy. Our sponsors and well-wishers have also contributed to this journey. We want to make it a bigger project in the future. It is not easy in terms of funding, but we will keep trying."
While his efforts off the pitch showcase his generosity, the versatile defender remains fully focused on achieving success with Chennaiyin FC in his debut ISL campaign. "We, at Chennaiyin, want to win something. I feel that we will do something. We have good players and we are going to fight," Emmanuel stated.
Reporting sourced from The Hindu Football. Photo courtesy The Hindu Football.