q&a WITH ACT GLOBAL: MEL YOUNG AND JOHN BAIZE
Act Global have been providing the Homeless World Cup with quality turf for several years and will be again be providing the surface in Oslo
John (left) with Allen Zacharczuk from Act Global (middle) and Homeless World Cup Chief Operating Officer James McMeekin (right) at the Sacramento 2023 tournament.
Featuring John Baize, Founder & CEO of Act Global in conversation with Mel Young, President and Co-Founder, Homeless World Cup Foundation
Mel Young: John, first of all, we are so grateful for your incredible and ongoing support of the Homeless World Cup Foundation. You've been with us for many tournaments, supplying the highest quality turf for our players and creating pitches that are truly world-class. I know you've attended many tournaments over the years — what are some of your standout memories? Do you have a favourite tournament?
John: Thank you, Mel — it’s an honour to support the Homeless World Cup and the work you and your team do. There are so many unforgettable moments since we started with you in 2015. One that really stands out for me was in Amsterdam — seeing the energy in the crowd, the pride in the players, and the atmosphere in that city square was just electric. I also remember the incredible spirit of the players in Mexico City while attending with my son, where football became a true celebration of hope. Sharing last year’s event in Seoul with my daughter was also amazing. But honestly, every tournament is unique. It’s the people, the players’ stories, and the friendships that make each one special. Being pitch-side and seeing the direct impact the game has on lives — that stays with me.
Mel: Your turf has been used by top-tier clubs and certified by FIFA — it’s literally world-class. But what is it that makes the Homeless World Cup different from the other tournaments or events you usually supply to?
John: Most of the time we’re providing turf for performance, elite-level sport, and stadiums — where the focus is on the game itself. But the Homeless World Cup is about more than football. It’s about transformation. The pitch becomes a platform for hope, for dignity, for change. There’s an emotional power here that you don’t get in other events. I get choked up even thinking about it. You see lives being rebuilt, confidence restored, and communities cheering together. That human element — that’s what makes it extraordinary.
Mel: If you could choose your dream city or country to host a future Homeless World Cup, where would you pick and why?
John: There are so many great international cities around the world that would be perfect for the tournament and the tournament would impact those countries. It would be truly touching if it came back to the United States to New York City or Washington. The spirit and impact of Homeless World Cup transcends national borders and reminds us that the players are our friends, brothers, sisters and family members. They are important and valued and sharing this spirit around the world is a great reminder of this.
Mel: You're clearly a passionate football fan — we've seen you cheering in the stands at many tournaments. So tell us, who do you support? Who’s your favourite player? And do you have a standout football memory?
John: Wow, so many memories come to mind - from the player in Glasgow with missing limbs that inspired the crowd with his heart as a goalkeeper to the Ukrainian team in Sacramento who played with so much heart. The level of football is very high and the players have amazing talent every year. I have loved seeing the American team improve each year and have a great showing in Seoul. I know it is a team sport, but the individual players representing so many countries touch my heart ever year. Last year in Seoul, an English player collided with another player, and rather than score the goal he stopped playing just to check on his competitor’s well-being.
Mel John, if you were speaking to someone who’s never experienced or watched a game at the Homeless World Cup before, what would you tell them to expect? Why should they come and watch the tournament?
John: I'd tell them: prepare to be moved. This isn’t just a football tournament — it’s a celebration of resilience, unity, and joy. You’ll see passion, national pride, and raw determination on every pitch. But more than anything, you'll witness the human spirit in action. It’s emotional. It’s uplifting. It’s inspiring. You’ll leave feeling like a part of something bigger — something that matters. Everyone should experience that at least once.
Mel: The Homeless World Cup is always evolving. We’re always looking for new supporters and organisations to join us. You’ve been associated with the tournament for quite a while. What would you say to a fellow CEO — someone who enjoys football and wants to make a difference — about getting involved with the Homeless World Cup?
John: I’d say: don’t hesitate. If you’re a business leader who believes in people and believes in purpose, this is one of the most meaningful ways to get involved. The Homeless World Cup makes an impact. The organizers, volunteers, referees, players and supporters are all part of a single movement to change lives. And as a CEO, when you align your company with that kind of mission, it uplifts your team, your brand, and your values. It’s more than corporate social responsibility — it’s humanity in action. Get on board. You won’t regret it.
Mel: The Homeless World Cup is unlike anything else. It offers a unique blend of competition, community, and compassion — giving people a second chance through sport. If you could sum up the Homeless World Cup in just five words, what would they be?
John: Empowering. Inspiring. Inclusive. Transformational. Human.
The Homeless World Cup is a world class sporting spectacle which has the power to change the lives of participants and shape attitudes towards the global issue of homelessness, using the universal language of football.
To keep across all Oslo 2025 news and announcements please follow the Homeless World Cup Foundation on social media as we build up to the tournament taking place in a month from now.