Carla Harris to deliver keynote address at “Soccer for Dreamers” fundraising gala in New Jersey

Soccer For Dreamers, a New Jersey-based non-profit organization, was co-founded by three Ghanaian teenage brothers – Baruch, Jed, and Kayden Akwaboah. The trio started the fundraising initiative, collecting fairly used soccer gear from the United States and shipping them to Ghana as donations to underprivileged children in underserved communities.

Having played soccer across 4 continents since age 4, and presently in New Jersey, the brothers understand the challenges and opportunities the sport provides. Knowing that many children in Ghana have big dreams and a desire to develop their soccer skills, Soccer For Dreamers was established to break the cycle of poverty through soccer. The organization also helps children who are hindered by financial challenges to explore potential college or professional club opportunities.

On June 9, the non-profit organization will be hosting its inaugural fundraising event dubbed, the Charity Summer Ball, to celebrate the official launch of Soccer For Dreamers. 

The organization will also honor the memory and legacy of the late soccer legend, Edson Arantes do Nascimento, fondly known as Pele, during the event. The World Cup champion’s daughter, Kely Nascimento, will be in attendance to accept the award on behalf of her father’s “indefatigable work on and off the pitch for equity through sports.”

The keynote speaker at the gala, Ms. Carla Harris, is a renowned author, business mentor, and Senior Client Advisor at Morgan Stanley. The event will also be hosted by Derby Ozioma Chukwudo (Miss New Jersey USA 2023) and Jody Jacobs (UN-based TV correspondent).

There will be performances by saxophonist, Connell Thompson; jazz vocalist, Larissa Jones; and opera singer, Ongama Mhlontlo; with Ekow Fisho behind the turntables. 

The event will be held at Canoe Brook Country Club in Summit, New Jersey. For tickets and more information, visit: soccerfordreamers.com/event/summer-charity-ball