Stormzy and adidas have unveiled Merky FC HQ, a physical state-of-the-art facility in London.
Located in Croydon, the hub offers a football pitch, recording studio, and gaming centre. It aims to empower youth in south London and beyond, providing spaces for sports, music, and esports exploration, as well as educational and fitness activities.
This initiative builds on the success of the Merky FC project, launched in 2022, which has already created work opportunities for young people from black heritage backgrounds, including at the likes of Arsenal, IMG, and Sky Sports.
Tobi Ogundipe, Founder & CEO of DIVERSE, an organisation which has supported Merky FC in creating these opportunities, sees this as another positive step forward.
What he said:
“[Merky FC HQ is] a physical representation of some of the work that’s been done already [by Stormzy] and a symbol of inspiration for young people for the future.
It’s a world class facility with a full-size football pitch, recording studio and gaming centre [but] above all, it’s a safe place for young people.
When you factor in that 2023 saw record levels of knife crime in London it’s clear to see why it’s so important we provide youth with support and opportunities.
[Through this launch,] Stormzy is doing his part to make a difference.
This is all on top of the financial support he gives to black students wanting to study at Cambridge University [as well as] how he’s helping underrepresented authors with publishing opportunities.
I couldn’t be happier about what he and Adidas have created here.”
.png)
