Playing volleyball has become one of the highlights of my week as I continue to learn, improve, and grow.
Charles Bannerman
Before coming to Future of Africa, leaving the street was not easy for me. Even though life there was terrible and surviving each day was a constant struggle, I had become used to being on my own and making my own decisions. The street gave me a sense of freedom, even with all the difficulties that came with it. And going back home was never an option because of my abusive stepfather, so the street felt like the only place I belonged.
When Future of Africa invited me to join their program, I was happy and I accepted. I felt like it was a chance for something different. I joined Future of Africa in 2025, and now it has been a year since I became part of the family. Looking back, one of the things that made me decide to join was how kind everyone was to me from the beginning. The volunteers were friendly and easy to talk to, and the staff made me feel like they cared about me. That was something I was not used to. What I also enjoyed was the games I got to play.
Since joining, I have had many fun experiences, playing games and spending time with the residents at the center. One of my favourite things to do is to play volleyball at the center. When I was younger, I used to go to the beach with my friends and watch people play volleyball. I did not really understand the game back then, but I liked watching it. Sometimes when the ball went far, I would run to get it and pass it back to the adults playing. Other times, I would get the chance to hit the ball once or twice.
This year, a new volleyball court was installed at the community center, and this gave me a chance to practice what I had watched for many years. For the first time, I had the chance to properly learn how to play. Since then, I have been spending more time on the court and really enjoying the game.
Sir Elom has been teaching me and Bright the rules and how the game works. At first, I made plenty of mistakes but now I finally understand the basics and how to play as part of a team. I am definitely not very good yet and I still struggle sometimes, especially when it comes to directing the ball properly. But honestly, I do not mind because I am having a lot of fun while learning.
Twice a week, when Sir Elom has time, he teaches me and Bright different volleyball skills like setting the ball, serving, passing, teamwork, communication on the court, movement, and proper positioning during games. My favourite part is when I get the chance to smash the ball. That is always exciting for me. There is just something cool about getting a good hit.
Every Thursday, we divide ourselves into teams of four and play matches together. Those are some of my favourite moments during the week. It is fun, competitive, and also a really good break from my skills training. After spending hours focusing on learning and work, volleyball gives me time to relax, and just enjoy myself.
Volleyball has become one of my new favourite hobbies. I never expected to enjoy it this much, but now I look forward to playing every week. Who knows, if I keep improving, it might even replace football as my number one sport someday. But for now, I am just happy to be learning something new, having fun, and making good memories along the way.
Written with Charles Bannerman, 2025 Cohort
12th May 2026
