Brian’s love for football ignited at the tender age of 13, when he would trek miles to play with friends in Madaraka estate. Despite the allure of video games and bikes in his new neighborhood, his commitment to the sport never wavered. Yet, his parents didn’t initially see a budding athlete, only a child returning home covered in dirt, neglecting household chores.

But football was just the beginning. Brian’s interests are as diverse as his vision for Africa. Inspired by trailblazers like Wangari Maathai, he immerses himself in self-development and champions pan-African empowerment.

A fun fact: Brian played for Strathmore FC before he even became a student. His passion for football was deeply rooted, with cherished memories of playing at the national level. Fast forward to 2003, when he joined Strathmore University to pursue an ACCA qualification. His time at Strathmore was more than just an academic journey—it laid the foundation for life. The values and skills he gained equipped him to face the world and make a meaningful impact.

Now the CEO of the Football Foundation for Africa (FFA), Brian is on a mission to create a sustainable framework for African football. This milestone journey began in January 2015, when the tragic loss of his close friend Allan ‘Obama’ Onyango in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, became the catalyst for Brian’s unwavering commitment to FFA’s mission. His return to Kenya in 2019 marked a turning point, as he embarked on a quest to revolutionize African sports, proving that the power to change the world lies in those bold enough to try.

Brian, with his vision for African sports, embodies this overlooked demographic. His goal with FFA is to address the foundational shortcomings plaguing African football by advocating for robust grassroots support to nurture future talent. Reflecting on his journey, Brian reminisces about his days at Strathmore University, where his passion for football flourished alongside academic pursuits. The inception of FFA stemmed from his realization of the dearth of African representation in the global sports arena. Even during his stint in Geneva, Brian’s heart remained tethered to football, prompting him to pursue avenues to contribute to its development.

What does winning the ” Alumni of the Year: Service To Society” Award mean to you?

“Winning this award is more than just a personal achievement—it’s a powerful affirmation of my journey to serve society through football. This recognition fuels my passion and strengthens my resolve, proving that with dedication and perseverance, we can truly shape the future of African football. ” he says.

But this award is about more than just one person. It’s a celebration of the collective spirit of Strathmore alumni, a call to action that echoes across our community. Its purpose is to:

• Foster a deep sense of belonging within the Strathmore family
• Inspire alumni to harness their skills, education, and talents for the greater good
• Encourage us to uplift and motivate each other to continue making a difference

This honor is a reminder that when we come together, we have the power to transform not just our own lives, but the world around us.

Congratulation Brian Wesaala. #KeepWinning.