THE ASF STORY
The African Sports Foundation of America, Inc. (ASF America) was founded on the belief that sports can do more than build athletes — they can build stronger communities, create opportunities, and inspire lasting change.
What began as a passion for sports and community engagement has grown into a larger mission rooted in youth development, mentorship, cultural unity, and empowerment. Based in Worcester, Massachusetts, ASF America was created to serve as a platform where sports become a tool for connection, leadership, and positive impact.
For years, our work has been grounded in grassroots community efforts — organizing training sessions, youth clinics, tournaments, and community soccer events that bring people together. Through these experiences, we saw firsthand how powerful sports can be in shaping confidence, discipline, teamwork, and a sense of belonging.
That vision led to the formation of ASF America.
Today, ASF America exists to support youth, families, and communities — especially underserved and immigrant communities — by creating programs and events that go beyond the game. While soccer is at the center of much of our work, our mission is broader: to use sports as a bridge to promote education, leadership, wellness, mentorship, and cultural pride.
Our signature events, including the U.S. African Cup and the Worcester African Nations Tournament, reflect the heart of who we are. These events celebrate not only competition, but also diversity, heritage, unity, and community spirit.
ASF America is more than a nonprofit organization. It is a movement built on purpose, passion, and service. We are committed to creating safe spaces, meaningful opportunities, and a lasting legacy for the next generation.
As we continue to grow, our mission remains clear:
To empower individuals, unite communities, and create impact through sports.
We are building something bigger than the game — and this is only the beginning.
WHO WE SERVE
At the African Sports Foundation of America, Inc. (ASF America), we are committed to serving individuals and communities through sports, mentorship, education, and cultural connection.
Our work is rooted in the belief that everyone deserves access to opportunities that promote growth, confidence, wellness, and belonging.
Youth & Young Athletes
We serve youth of all backgrounds by providing access to sports training, development programs, mentorship, and positive role models.
Our programs are designed to help young people:
• Build confidence and discipline
• Develop leadership and teamwork skills
• Improve physical health and wellness
• Learn life lessons that extend beyond sports
We are especially passionate about creating safe, supportive spaces where young athletes can grow both on and off the field.
Underserved & Immigrant Communities
ASF America is deeply committed to supporting underserved and immigrant communities by creating inclusive programs and events that foster opportunity, connection, and representation.
We understand the power of sports to break barriers, build relationships, and create a strong sense of belonging.
Families & Local Communities
We serve families by offering programs and events that bring people together in positive, healthy, and engaging environments.
Through clinics, tournaments, and community activities, we create opportunities for families to connect, support one another, and be part of something meaningful.
Adult Athletes & Community Members
Our work also extends to adults through recreational soccer, fitness-based programming, wellness activities, and community events that encourage active lifestyles and social connection.
ASF America believes sports should remain a lifelong tool for health, fellowship, and community building.
The Broader Community
Beyond the field, we serve the broader community by using sports as a platform to promote:
• Leadership development
• Cultural unity
• Community engagement
• Positive youth mentorship
• Health and wellness
• Opportunity and exposure
Serving With Purpose
At ASF America, we are here to serve those who need support, opportunity, and community.
Whether it’s a young athlete finding confidence, a family finding connection, or a community coming together through the game, our mission is to create lasting impact through sports.
We serve with purpose. We lead with passion. We build through community.
MEET THE TEAM
Behind the African Sports Foundation of America, Inc. (ASF America) is a dedicated team of leaders committed to building impact through sports, mentorship, community outreach, and cultural unity.
Our leadership team brings passion, purpose, and a shared vision to create opportunities for youth, strengthen communities, and use sports as a platform for positive change.
Emmanuel Paye
Founder / President
Emmanuel Paye is the Founder and President of ASF America and the driving force behind the organization’s vision and mission. With a strong passion for youth development, community leadership, and sports-based mentorship, Emmanuel has spent years using soccer as a tool to empower individuals and bring communities together.
His grassroots work in Worcester and beyond has helped create programs, clinics, tournaments, and community events that promote leadership, confidence, discipline, and opportunity. Through ASF America, Emmanuel is focused on building a lasting legacy that uplifts underserved and immigrant communities through sports and service.
Eunice Freeman
Treasurer
Eunice Freeman serves as Treasurer of ASF America and plays a key role in supporting the organization’s financial oversight and organizational growth. She brings dedication, support, and a strong commitment to helping build a sustainable foundation that can create lasting impact in the community.
As part of the leadership team, Eunice helps ensure ASF America continues moving forward with structure, accountability, and purpose.
Fedesco Tolbert
Clerk / Secretary
Fedesco Tolbert serves as Clerk and Secretary of ASF America, helping support the organization’s administrative structure, recordkeeping, and official documentation.
His role is important in maintaining the foundation’s operations and ensuring that ASF America continues to build on a strong and organized foundation as it grows.
Jennifer Nakijoba
Consultant / Advisor
Jennifer Nakijoba serves as a Consultant and Advisor to ASF America, offering insight, guidance, and support as the organization continues to develop and expand.
Her perspective and encouragement have played an important role in helping shape the foundation’s direction and strengthening its long-term vision.
Prince Gayflor
Advisor
Prince Gayflor serves as an Advisor to ASF America, supporting the organization with guidance, encouragement, and community-centered insight.
As part of the broader leadership team, Prince contributes to the vision of building a strong, impactful organization that uses sports to inspire unity, opportunity, and positive change.
A Team Built on Purpose
ASF America is built by people who believe in the power of sports to transform lives and strengthen communities.
Together, we are committed to building something meaningful — for today and for future generations. ⚽
OUR PARTNERS
At the African Sports Foundation of America, Inc. (ASF America), we believe meaningful impact is built through collaboration.
Our partners play an important role in helping us create opportunities, expand access, and strengthen the communities we serve through sports, mentorship, wellness, and cultural engagement.
We are proud to work alongside organizations, businesses, community leaders, sponsors, volunteers, and supporters who share our vision of empowering individuals and building stronger communities.
Community Partners
Our community partners help us connect with families, youth, and local residents by supporting programs, events, outreach efforts, and shared community initiatives.
These partnerships allow us to create safe, inclusive spaces where people can grow, connect, and thrive.
Facility & Venue Partners
Access to quality spaces is essential to the success of our programs and events.
We are grateful for the schools, community centers, gyms, and local venues that help us host trainings, clinics, tournaments, meetings, and community gatherings throughout the year.
Their support helps us continue serving athletes and families in meaningful ways.
Event Sponsors & Supporters
Our sponsors and supporters help make our signature events and community programs possible.
From tournament support and youth programming to supplies, equipment, awards, and operational needs, their contributions directly impact our ability to deliver high-quality experiences for the communities we serve.
Volunteers & Community Leaders
Our work would not be possible without the individuals who give their time, energy, and expertise to support our mission.
Volunteers, mentors, coaches, organizers, and community leaders are all essential partners in helping ASF America create lasting impact.
Partner With Purpose
Together, we can create more opportunities, reach more communities, and build something greater than the game.
Interested in partnering with ASF America?
We’d love to connect and explore how we can work together to create impact through sports.