Can you help? Dover Athletic and former Maidstone United defender Seth Nana Twumasi launches fundraiser as part of his mission to change the lives of young footballers in Africa

Dover defender Seth Nana Twumasi is on a mission to help change the lives of under-privileged children in Africa.

Twumasi founded the Phoenix Academy in Ghana in 2018, giving opportunities to youngsters living in poverty through football.

In just four years he’s seen 14 boys earn scholarships to study and play in America, including Isaac Bawa, who is now playing for David Beckham’s old club, LA Galaxy, in MLS.

“He didn’t really have much at home, even a square meal a day was a problem for him,” recalls Twumasi, who has four people working for him in Ghana.

“We took him into our campus where we accommodate all the boys.

“We train them, we feed them, we managed to get him a scholarship and now he’s playing for LA Galaxy.

“It’s a big transition from not being able to get a square meal a day at home to all of a sudden living his dream as a professional football player."

George Asomani, who trained with Maidstone during Twumasi’s time at the Gallagher, recently joined San Jose Earthquakes in MLS, Emmanuel Owusu is with Ukranian top-flight side Metalist and there’s also interest from Cyprus in two boys.

Twumasi moved to England from Ghana, aged 10, starting his career at Chelsea, but he has never forgotten his roots.

He provides food and accommodation for 30 players on campus in Accra while, in May, the academy opens up to children from all over Africa for a two-day showcase event which is attended by coaches from America and Europe.

Twumasi has launched a fundraiser for the event which will help with the cost of kit, equipment, pitch hire, transport and food and drink for the boys.

He’s had help in the UK from clubs he’s played for over the years, including kit from Maidstone and the promise of boots from the Chelsea kitman,