ALPHA
About
Álvaro García Maldonado is a visionary leader dedicated to transforming lives through football. As the founder and CEO of FASI, a groundbreaking initiative in Mozambique, Álvaro has created a platform that empowers girls by combining football, education, and healthcare. His work challenges entrenched gender norms and fosters inclusivity, building a foundation for young girls to thrive both on and off the pitch.
Educational and Professional Background
Álvaro’s academic and professional journey reflects his deep commitment to social impact. He holds a double major in Law and Economics, as well as a Master’s in Sports Management from Columbia University. Early in his career, he focused on impact investing in developing countries, building expertise in creating sustainable solutions for underserved communities.
Later, Álvaro transitioned into football, gaining valuable experience with world-renowned organizations such as Bayern Munich and the New York Red Bulls. These roles provided him with unique insights into youth development, grassroots programs, and the importance of fostering inclusivity in sports.
The Birth of FASI
Álvaro’s journey with FASI began with a desire to address the lack of opportunities for girls in sports, a realization he had as a teenager when he noticed his female friends and relatives didn’t have the same access to football as he did. This sense of justice and equality became the driving force behind FASI’s mission.
FASI offers a holistic model for empowerment, providing free access to football training, education, and healthcare for girls in Mozambique. The initiative doesn’t stop at supporting athletes; it also creates opportunities for female coaches, assistants, and role models, showing young girls the diverse possibilities available to them within the sport.
Grassroots Inspiration and Early Influences
Álvaro’s passion for using football as a tool for social change was further cemented by his time at ADDEEC, a Mozambican NGO focused on empowering children through sports. His later experience at El Cambio Academy in Uganda, where he supported girls’ football programs, was another pivotal moment. Witnessing the transformative impact of these initiatives reinforced Álvaro’s belief in football’s potential to drive societal change.
Challenges and Success Stories
FASI has faced numerous challenges, including confronting deeply rooted gender norms and building an organization in a resource-limited environment. To overcome skepticism about girls participating in football, Álvaro and his team have focused on creating visible success stories.
Two FASI ambassadors, professional players for Mozambique’s national team who now play in Europe, serve as role models, proving the immense potential of women in football. Additionally, hiring female coaches and assistants has further challenged stereotypes and inspired young girls. Today, FASI stands as a beacon of hope, transforming lives and fostering societal change.
A Vision for the Future
Álvaro envisions a future where FASI becomes a blueprint for similar initiatives across Africa, breaking down gender barriers and creating opportunities for girls worldwide. His dream is to see FASI’s model of empowerment and talent development replicated in other developing countries, helping young girls access the transformative power of football.
In the broader context of women’s football, Álvaro sees a bright future with increased investment, professionalism, and inclusivity. He believes that as the sport grows, it will serve as a powerful tool for education, health, and social development, especially in underserved regions.
Sustainability and Community Impact
Álvaro is deeply committed to promoting sustainability within football. FASI incorporates eco-friendly practices and educates its participants on environmental responsibility. Álvaro believes that women’s football can play a key role in setting an example for broader environmental and social awareness, particularly in regions like Mozambique, where education on sustainability is critical.
Personal Insights and Legacy
Beyond his professional achievements, Álvaro finds inspiration in the resilience and potential of the girls he serves. Traveling and living abroad have enriched his perspective, and his love for chess has honed his problem-solving and strategic thinking skills.
Álvaro’s work with FASI reflects his unwavering belief in football’s ability to transform lives. His long-term aspiration is to leave a legacy where opportunities in women’s football are limitless and the sport becomes a platform for equity, empowerment, and sustainable growth.
