International Footballer Raheem Sterling: Turning Dreams into Reality with a Generous College Fund

Jamaican born Football star Raheem Sterling, who is playing for the national team of England and Chelsea football club in the English Premier League, is bringing hopes alive and making dreams come true through a generous college fund initiative.

Sterling’s fund offers support to disadvantaged youngsters who wish to further their education. Dedicating a massive part of his funds to back this initiative, he works towards providing financial assistance and opportunities for these underprivileged geniuses who have talent and the will to succeed but lack the resources to pursue their academic pursuits.

Born in Jamaica on 8 December 1994, Sterling was just two years old when his father was murdered.

“That shaped my entire life,” Sterling said, writing in The Players’ Tribune in 2018.

“Not long after that, my mum made the decision to leave me and my sister in Jamaica and go to England so she could get her degree and give us a better life.”

Living with his grandmother in Jamaica’s capital Kingston, Sterling recalled feeling jealous as he watched other children with their mothers.

“I didn’t fully understand what my mum was doing for us. I just knew that she was gone,” he wrote.

“My grandma was amazing, but everybody wants their mum at that age.”

Aged five, Sterling moved to London to live with his mother and grew up in the shadow of Wembley Stadium – the home of English football – as he watched the new ground being built from his back garden.

He spent time at a school for children with behavioural problems, where one of his teachers reportedly told him “if he carried on the way he was going he would either be playing for England or he’d be in prison”.

Sterling upbringing and childhood experiences have profoundly shaped his unwavering generosity in giving back and supporting young people who may have faced similar challenges. ~Sky News

Raheem Sterling was not selected for England’s Euro 2024 squad on Tuesday; however, there is positive news regarding his off-field initiatives.

Last year, Sterling’s foundation inaugurated The Raheem Sterling Scholarships designed to provide financial assistance and mentorship for 14 students at King’s College London and the University of Manchester over the next three years.

The scholarship is available to students of black, African, and Caribbean descent from socio-economically underrepresented backgrounds in Greater London and Greater Manchester.

“I’m delighted to hear inspiring stories from students and to hear how the scholarship programme has helped to provide positive experiences during the first year of their course,” said the Chelsea forward.

“Through education, we can drive real social mobility and create long lasting pillars that will last throughout their studies, into future careers and beyond.

“I look forward to welcoming the second group of students into the scholarship programme and following their progress over the next few years.”

By leveraging his personal success, the international footballer becomes a role model not just on the field, but off the field as well. His commitment to giving back and uplifting his community reflects his character and dedication. Sterling is indeed playing a significant role in building a brighter future and stronger foundation for the next generation.

Certainly, Raheem Sterling is making a significant difference and he is much more than just a footballer. His initiative is a tribute to the power of sports, showing how it can transform lives and bring about positive change in society. His college fund embodies the essence of giving back to the community and paving a better path for others. He is not just playing the game but also changing the game.

About the scholarship  

The Raheem Sterling Foundation envisions a world where young people will always have the support they need in the pursuit of improving their opportunities, future careers and quality of life. 

Through his charitable organisation, Raheem Sterling is dedicated to helping those from disadvantaged backgrounds break down barriers to success, find their voice, and realise their true potential in the world. 

Manchester is a place that holds special meaning for Raheem, and we’re delighted to be supporting the Foundation in its efforts to increase social mobility and remove obstacles for talented young people from the Greater Manchester region. 

The Foundation will fund seven students on undergraduate degree courses at The University of Manchester over the next three years. 

The scholarship has an application and selection process. 

If you’re successful in securing a scholarship, you’ll need to share an update on your progress with the Raheem Sterling Foundation each year.