More Than
Football
Building people, not
just players.
Our Story
A DREAM
THAT CREATES
OPPORTUNITY.
RAFA Academy was founded in Lomé, Togo with a simple but powerful belief — every child, no matter their background, deserves access to high-quality football training, education, and the opportunity to build a brighter future.
How It All Began
From a Passion
to a Purpose
Growing up, football gave me discipline, confidence and hope. It opened doors and shaped my life.
I saw countless talented children in Togo with the same dreams but without access to quality coaching, resources, or structured development.
RAFA Academy was created to change that — to use football as a tool for education, character development and opportunity.
Meet Our Founder →
“Football
can change
a life.”— Coach Eso
More Than
Education
Through Sport
Using football to promote school attendance and life skills.
Access &
Opportunity
Creating pathways for talented youth to reach their full potential.
Stronger
Communities
Investing in the next generation for a brighter Togo and Africa.
Our Founder
Coach Eso
Founder, RAFA Academy
I founded RAFA Academy to give children in Lomé, Togo the same opportunities that football gave me. Through discipline, hard work and education, I believe we can help them become stronger individuals, contribute to their communities and create a brighter future for the next generation.
Coach Eso
Coach Eso
Founder & President
RAFA Academy
Our Coaching Staff
Experienced Coaches. Stronger Players.
Our coaching staff is committed to providing high-quality training, mentorship, and a positive environment for every player. Together, we develop skills on the field and character off the field.
Coach Gaston
Main Coach
Leads the overall training program at RAFA Academy. Brings strong technical knowledge, tactical understanding and a passion for developing young players on and off the field.
Coach Martin
Main Assistant Coach
Supports the main coach in daily training sessions. Focuses on player development, individual improvement, and mentorship to help each player grow in skill, confidence and character.
Coach Elise
Main Goalkeeper Coach
Leads the goalkeeping program at RAFA Academy. Works with our goalkeepers to develop technical skills, confidence, mental strength and game understanding.
Our Journey
Key Milestones
2021
The Vision
A dream to create opportunities for young people in Togo through football, education and mentorship.
2025
RAFA Academy Created
RAFA Academy was created in Lomé, Togo to give young people access to football training, education and opportunity.
Today & Beyond
Bigger Impact
Continuing to grow, create more opportunities and develop a new generation of leaders on and off the field.
Our Vision
A Generation of
Leaders On and Off the Field.
To see a generation of young men and women in Africa with the skills, confidence and opportunities to change their own lives, their communities and the world around them.
Join Our Mission →Lomé, TogoBe Part of Our Story
Your support helps us provide football training, education, equipment and opportunities for more children in Lomé, Togo.