Arsenal star Bukayo Saka received the Socrates Award at the Ballon d'Or ceremony not only for his on-field achievements but also for his extensive humanitarian efforts. While recovering from a thigh injury, Saka accepted the award in recognition of his significant contributions to the BigShoe charity, which focuses on providing aid in poverty-stricken countries.
Saka's involvement with BigShoe spans four years, during which he has actively participated in projects that fund medical operations, provide disaster relief, and support communities in countries like Nigeria and Rwanda. Valerie Fiesser, president of BigShoe, described Saka as a highly productive and engaged philanthropist. "Bukayo is really, really productive," Fiesser stated. "He is really pushing how he wants to help. I think for him it is never fast enough to help."
Fiesser recalled Saka's initial contact with the charity in early 2022, describing it as a "random" email where he expressed a desire to help children in Nigeria after seeing a project by another player. This led to a significant project later that year, funding 120 life-changing medical operations for children suffering from conditions such as brain tumors and hernias.
Saka's commitment extends beyond financial contributions; he actively seeks updates, asks detailed questions about project logistics, and shows concern for the well-being of those being helped. "When we are on the ground, he is texting, 'Is everything alright? Is everybody safe? Are all the children safe? Which services do we have? Can I see pictures? Send me pictures, send me pictures, send me pictures!'" Fiesser shared.
BigShoe, founded in 2006, has since helped over 10,000 children globally through various initiatives. Saka has also supported healthcare check-ups for over 580 children in Rwanda and contributed to disaster relief efforts following earthquakes in Morocco and Turkey. In 2023, he donated 50 containers to provide shelter for 255 people affected by an earthquake in Morocco.
Saka's mother, Adenike, is also a key figure in their philanthropic work, collaborating with Fiesser to identify needs and implement aid. They recently renovated a school in Rwanda, providing clean drinking water, building girls' changing rooms, a soccer pitch, and a library. Plans are also in place for food package distribution.
Fiesser emphasized that Saka's motivation is always centered on the children he helps, stating, "It was never about him. It was always about the children and how we can help."
While Saka continues his career with Arsenal and the England national team, his humanitarian work is poised to leave a lasting legacy beyond the football pitch.