Homeless World Cup Foundation welcomes South Sudan as its 75th Member Country
The Homeless World Cup Foundation is proud to welcome South Sudan as the 75th Homeless World Cup Member Country to join its growing global network, a milestone that reflects both the strength of the movement and its continued reach into communities where opportunity is most needed.
Through the addition of Young Dreams Foundation (YDF), a youth-led organisation based in Juba, the Homeless World Cup Foundation continues to expand its year-round impact across Africa and beyond, using football as a tool for dignity, inclusion and hope.
Founded in 2016, Young Dreams Foundation works with children and young people aged 10–25 who are affected by poverty, displacement and conflict. Through inclusive football programmes alongside education, child protection and psychosocial support, YDF helps young people build confidence, life skills and a sense of belonging, both on and off the pitch.
Football activities are currently delivered in Juba, including Gumbo, Sherikat, and Highland with plans to expand further as the organisation grows. YDF has also collaborated with international partners, including UNICEF, to deliver youth-focused sports initiatives across South Sudan.
Commenting on joining the Homeless World Cup Foundation Network, Alaak Kuku, Executive Director of Young Dreams Foundation, said:
“Joining the Homeless World Cup Foundation Network strengthens our mission to use football to reach the most marginalised youth and create pathways for dignity, inclusion and opportunity.”
As the Homeless World Cup Foundation looks ahead to an ambitious future, including Mexico City 2026 and the continued expansion of its year-round programmes, reaching 75 Member Countries represents more than a number. It is a powerful signal of what can be achieved when local leadership, global collaboration and the unifying power of football come together.
Together with organisations like Young Dreams Foundation, the Homeless World Cup Foundation continues to grow a global movement - ensuring more cities, more communities and more young people have the chance to change their lives through football.
Mel Young, Co-founder and President at the Homeless World Cup Foundation was delighted to welcome South Sudan into the Homeless World Cup Member Country network, saying:
“Welcoming South Sudan as our 75th Member Country is a powerful moment for the Homeless World Cup Foundation. It reflects the strength of our global network and the leadership of local organisations using football to restore dignity, build community and create opportunity. Together, we continue to grow a movement that reaches further, listens deeper and acts where it matters most.”