AFRIYEA Golf Academy receives donations from Earl Grey Golf Club Members and TaylorMade to boost youth development

The members of Earl Grey Golf Club in Alberta, Canada, alongside leading golf brand TaylorMade have supported Uganda’s AFRIYEA Golf Academy with essential golf apparel and equipment.

This generous contribution, facilitated through the Global Golf Box initiative led by Jennifer MacKinnon, aims to empower young Ugandan golfers by providing them with the resources needed to nurture their talent and position Uganda as a future force in global golf.

AFRIYEA Golf Academy, based in Fort Portal, Uganda, is at the forefront of grassroots golf development in East Africa.

The academy has built a reputation for producing skilled golfers while promoting environmental sustainability, inclusion, and personal development.

However, limited resources have often hindered its ability to provide young, talented players with access to proper golf attire, membership fees, education and essential equipment.

Jennifer MacKinnon, a Senior Associate Golf Professional at Calgary’s Earl Grey Golf Club, launched the Global Golf Box initiative in 2024 in collaboration with AFRIYEA’s Isaiah Mwesige to help bridge this gap.

Their mission is to uplift the most disciplined, committed, and talented young golfers, ensuring they have the tools to reach their full potential.

I wanted to make a meaningful impact within the golf community by supporting and uplifting underprivileged junior golfers. The Global Box Initiative with AFRIYEA in Uganda was never just about sending clothing and balls it was about building connections across the world, supporting a program that reflects our values, and reinforcing that golf is a community where everyone belongs. And what better membership than Earl Grey to help bring this unique project to life.

Jennifer MacKinnon, a Senior Associate Golf Professional at Calgary’s Earl Grey Golf Club

The donation includes t-shirts, trousers, shorts, hoodies, and golf balls. Items that will go a long way in boosting the morale and performance of the academy’s young golfers.

We are thrilled to partner with Jennifer and the members of Earl Grey Golf Club. This initiative demonstrates how global partnerships can create real pathways for young Ugandan golfers to grow into future champions.

Isaiah Mwesige, CEO AFRIYEA Golf Academy

The impact of this initiative of donations has already been felt at AFRIYEA Golf Academy.

Coach Happy Robert, one of the academy’s senior instructors, emphasized how crucial the support is for young golfers.

Golf is a game of confidence, and having the right gear plays a huge role in how young players perform. Many of our students come from backgrounds where access to basic golf necessities is a challenge. This support from Earl Grey Golf Club and TaylorMade gives them a renewed sense of purpose. It tells them that someone out there believes in their potential.

Robert Happy, coach at AFRIYEA Golf Academy

Fifteen-year-old Esther Kemigisa, one of the academy’s rising stars, shared her excitement about receiving new equipment.

When I wear a proper golf shirt or hold a brand-new ball, I feel like a professional. It pushes me to practice harder because I know that if I work hard, I can become like my golf idols. I’m incredibly grateful for this support, and I hope that one day, I can inspire other young golfers just as people are helping us now.

Esther Kemigisa, AFRIYEA Golf Academy’s rising star

Golf offers far more than just physical exercise and outdoor enjoyment it builds character and instills discipline, focus, and integrity. By nurturing patience, perseverance, and sportsmanship, it equips individuals with the essential qualities for success both on and off the course. I am honored to support this campaign with my donation and excited to witness the lasting impact it will have on these young golfers.

Joan, a Member of Earl Grey Golf Club

Building Uganda’s presence on the global golf stage

Uganda’s golf scene is growing, with emerging talent from programs like AFRIYEA Golf Academy.

However, opportunities for international exposure remain scarce. Initiatives like the Global Golf Box program and partnerships with international golf clubs and brands help bridge this gap, allowing African golfers to compete more effectively on the world stage.

“We want to see Ugandan players breaking into top international tournaments,” Mwesige said. “To achieve that, we need continued support from equipment donations to mentorship and sponsorships. This partnership with Jennifer and Earl Grey Golf Club is a crucial step forward, and we hope to build on it in the years to come.”

A call to action:

Individuals who wish to support this mission to grow the game and help underserved children gain access to the resources they need to change their lives can contact Jennifer MacKinnon or Earl Grey Golf Club.

More than gust golf: AFRIYEA’s mission beyond the fairways

Uganda, a young nation that gained independence in 1962 from British rule, borders the conflict-stricken Democratic Republic of Congo.

In Fort Portal, near this volatile region, AFRIYEA Golf Academy is more than just a training ground for future golf champions it’s a sanctuary of hope.

Beyond shaping young golfers, the academy provides a haven for children whose families have been economically affected by regional instability.

It also plays a crucial role in helping children heal from trauma, using the game of golf as a tool for resilience, education, and empowerment.

This initiative is not just about developing golf skills it’s about creating a future where young Ugandans can thrive, regardless of their circumstances.

Through the power of golf and global partnerships, AFRIYEA is not only nurturing athletes but also shaping leaders and change-makers for a better tomorrow.

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