STORMZY has once again partnered with Adidas as part of the #MerkyFootball initiative, launching an innovative online platform designed to help Black youth access and thrive in careers within the football industry.
Building on the momentum of the initiative's 2022 launch, this new platform aims to expand opportunities and create lasting connections for young people from UK Black Heritage backgrounds.
Since its inception, the #MerkyFootball program has already made significant strides, offering 63 roles within the football industry, with 39 positions extended beyond initial placements. Now, with the launch of this online platform, the initiative seeks to provide ongoing support for individuals already in roles, while also expanding its network to reach even more aspiring young professionals.
The platform is part of a broader partnership with DIVERSE, Merky's recruitment partner, and will operate year-round to provide vital career support, host events, and deliver job opportunities in football.
Tobi Ogundipe, Founder of DIVERSE, shared his pride in the continued collaboration:
“I’m proud that Adidas and Stormzy continue to give us a powerful platform to inspire and impact the lives of young people through career support, events, and work opportunities in football. It’s been incredible to see these talented individuals grow and finally get the chance to show what they can do. The brands involved have worked together to help us build, educate and hire from a new community of young people who previously had no connections in football. The best part is they’re now becoming the future faces of the industry and inspiring others from the black community to apply and join the mission as well.”
The project has already shown positive results, with a significant number of participants continuing in their roles well beyond their initial placements. Adidas’ Senior Director of Brand Communications, Steve Marks, expressed his excitement about the next phase of the initiative:
“The first two years have created a solid platform, and it is the right time to shift the programme to a year-round platform, creating more awareness and extended opportunities to continue to drive equity in the UK football business. The fact a high percentage of the recruits are being retained beyond their initial year placement is a testament to the concept and one that we are extremely proud of.”
This new online platform is just the latest in a series of impactful collaborations between Stormzy and Adidas. Earlier this year, they opened #MerkyFC HQ in Croydon, South London—a multi-purpose centre that blends football, music, and gaming. The hub offers the local community access to premium facilities, including football pitches, a recording studio, a sports gaming hub, and more.
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