ASU Sports Business Podcast: Recent Episodes
Africa Sports Unified
We have often heard of the growing football academies across Africa. Be it from global sporting brands establishing their own or more local academies.
What if we were to inform you of an academy that caters to multiple sports, including swimming, basketball, football & more?
Well, that is where City Sports Groups comes into play. A multi-sport academy based in Nigeria but with plans to expand across Africa.
Gabriel Ajala sat down with the CEO of City Sports Group, Shola Opaleye, as they had a fascinating insight into the business model of a successful sports academy plus much more.
Timestamp:
- Introduction - 02:10
- Inspiration behind City Sports Group (CSG) - 04:38
- About CSG- 13:25
- How CSG operate in a competitive market - 17:20
- Significant Milestones - 21:58
- CSG football team - 25:35
- What next - 27:20
- Future of African Sport - 31:05
- Ending - 33:34
Download the Report: ASU AFCON 2023 Overview
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Do you think the NFL entering the African market is a positive development for Africa?
Why has it only taken until BAL Season 4 for a powerhouse such as South Africa to stage a conference?
In this episode, Gabriel Ajala and his guest, Kevin Bahun-Wilson (co-founder of Afroballers) touch on these questions as they discuss the emergence and growth of American sports in Africa.
This was an insightful and fun episode to hear first-hand the opportunities that the NFL & NBA have in store for potential and future athletes as well as the market growth opportunities.
Timestamp:
- Introduction - 02:15
- NFL in Africa - 08:53
- Past Players Involvement- 11:08
- Basketball Africa League - 18:35
- NFL/BAL Contribution to African sport culture - 25:25
- Ending - 25:55
Download the Report: ASU AFCON 2023 Overview
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This episodes provides is an insightful episode with Abimbola Ilo, the Founder & Chairman of the leading sports marketing and management company headquartered in Lagos.
The conversation covered the sponsorship landscape in Africa, how CAF have done an amazing job with AFCON and what can be done to improve the standards of sports in Nigeria.
This is a really insightful conversation and one that you can't miss.
Timestamp:
- Introduction - 01:34
- How did the market receive Integral - 07:39
- Building Event Attendance - 10:23
- Perception of Sponsorships - 14:04
- Sponsorship - 19:43
- Stakeholder Engagement - 21:58
- Challenges to the growth of Sports in Nigeria - 26:04
- Potential Growth Areas? - 32:39
- Quick Fire Questions - 34:50
Download the Report: ASU AFCON 2023 Overview
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What was your perception of Africa football perhaps 10 years ago compared to how it is now?
In this episode, we sat down with the leading sports journalist and ambassador for African Football, Mimi Fawaz, live from Abidjan. Mimi has worked for the likes BBC & SkySports plus featured across various other platforms.
The standards and perception of African football has evolved over the years from something that not many people had interest in, to it now being globally respected and "cool". We delve into this topic and discuss what latest legacy will AFCON have on domestic football.
Timestamp:
- How has AFCON evolved - 00:02:17
- Memorable moments - 00:04:09
- The turning Point of African football - 00:05:52
- Challenges of the media in Africa - 00:10:48
- Engagement of fans in the Ivory Coast - 00:12:33
- CAF Awards - 00:14:04
- What makes AFCON a unique tournament - 00:15:41
Download the Report: ASU AFCON 2023 Overview
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Have you ever heard of Freestyle Football? This is a growing sport that engages with some of the world's biggest brands such as Red Bull & Juventus.
In this episode, we sit down with the Founder of the World Freestyle Football Association, Dan Wood, on how he built this global community.
It was an excellent conversation on which we also covered the foundations of Dan's purpose which is education & social impact and how this should be incorporated in every organisation.
How do we measure success? Through Ubuntu.
Listen to the whole podcast to find out what that means.
Timestamp:
- Intro - 0:00:07
- Guest Introduction - 0:02:27
- Who is Dan Wood - 0:03:09
- Redbull Partnership - 0:05:38
- The WFFA Community - 0:07:15
- Dan’s Pivotal Moments - 0:09:19
- Decentralised WFFA - 0:15:17
- Usage of Blockchain - 0:19:45
- Opportunities and challenges of Africa - 0:21:18
- The Event in Kenya - 0:26:25
- Dan’s Vision of the Sport - 0:28:39
- Donations - 0:35:14
- Balance Between Commercial and Social - 0:37:42
- Ubuntu - 0:39:41
- Quick Questions - 0:44:57
- Conclusion - 0:50:19
Download the Report: ASU AFCON 2023 Overview
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Happy New Year and welcome to the first podcast of 2024. We hope you are well rested and excited to tackle the year ahead.
Our first podcast of the year is a discussion with Gabriel Ajala, Gary Rathbone, CEO at Sportscape Media and James Torvaney, Managing Director of Pulse Sports, making his debut.
We began the podcast by discussing the AFCON 2023 Overview Report that we have recently released. This document is your one-stop insight into all the key business information pertaining to the tournament including commercial and media partners, all the brands involved, social media and fan engagement analytics plus much more.
This was a packed episode with alot of insights as they spoke about AFCON & What trends they look forward to seeing in 2024.
Timestamp:
- Intro - 0:00:07
- Guest Introduction - 0:03:57
- AFCON in 2024 - 0:04:57
- AFCON TV Rights - 0:06:20
- African Football Growth - 0:15:20
- Company Deals with AFCON & CAF - 0:20:00
- The importance of Media - 0:46:35
- Infrastructure Projects - 0:52:54
- Technology and the Future - 0:57:35
Download the Report: ASU AFCON 2023 Overview
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In this episode, Gabriel Ajala is joined by Andy Howes (Co-Founder & Director of AfroSports) and Gary Al-Smith, leading sports journalist from Ghana.
The 3 take a look back at the Inaugural ASU Connex Summit which took place on 20th October 2023 in partnership with Charles Russell Speechlys and AfroSport. They discuss their key takeaways from the summit and the value that such events bring.
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Timeline:
- 00:00 Introduction
- 04:00: Why another event in the ASU Connex Summit?
- 05:30: Highlights from the Content & Panels on the day
- 21:00: Engagement & Networking Opportunities in the room
- 24:00: The insight shared on a dedicated African arbitration centre for Sports
- 30:00: The importance of reputation and understanding the local market
- 35:00: Personal KeyTakeaways & the value from the ASU Connex Summit
- 38:00: Investing into Africa and looking at Basketball as an example
- 50:00: Closing remarks
Our 'In Conversation with..." series takes a deep dive into some of the leaders and trailblazers both on and off the field. What makes them tick and some insight into the journey they have embarked upon.
Our guest for this episode is Nicolas Pompigne-Mognard, Founder, Chairman & Owner of APO Group, Africa's only Pan-African Communications Consultancy. Nicolas has built APO Group to what it is today, working with leading brands across various sectors. He himself is also a pioneer and advocate for pushing and influencing the African narrative.
We discussed Nicolas's early years in how he started APO Group, the journey it has taken and what lessons he has learnt along the way that would be valuable to other entrepreneurs navigating the Pan-African space.
Timestamp:
- 0:00:11 - Introduction
- 0:04:51 - The beginning of APO
- 0:17:20 - How difficult was the beginning of APO
- 0:26:01 - Investment in Africa.
- 0:33:27 - If we don’t own our own story, we will lose our sovereignty.
- 0:36:08 - Approach to maintain strategic partnerships.
- 0:41:14 - Delegation
- 0:47:39 - Not everything can be about business.
- 0:51:13 - How crucial is multitasking at the beginning.
- 56:00 - What advice do you have for entrepreneurs in Africa
- 1:02:19 - What are the essential leadership skills?
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Our 'In Conversation with..." series takes a deep dive into some of the leaders and trailblazers both on and off the field. What makes them tick and some insight into the journey they have embarked upon.
Our first Episode with the Dr Seun Adigun, the 1st African bobsled driver to compete at the Winter Olympics & the Founder of Bobsled & Skeleton Federation Nigeria.
We discussed her early years in sport, her transition to Winter sports and her current focus of building Bobsled & Skeleton in Nigeria as well as being a key person in the sports, entertainment and culture for the diaspora.
Timestamp:
- Dr. Seun or just Seun. 2:47
- Life in College as a Sport Family member 5:17
- Olympics 2012 Experience 8:30
- The Challenge of representing Nigeria 10:41
- Why did you choose to Represent Nigeria? 15:09
- How important is Discipline? 19:21
- Why did you Change to the Winter Olympics? 23:48
- Did you have doubts about the setback of competing in the Winter Olympics? 30:58
- The Gofundme story and The Challenge of being a professional Athlete in Africa 32:34
- Creating a Bobsleigh Federation and the Winter Olympics 44:52
- What’s next for you and the process of Bobsleigh 50:35
- Charity Project 51:32
- How important are mentors 1:03:20
- Last question, What are your hobbies? 1:05:54
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In this episode of the Africa Sports Unified Sports Business Podcast, Gabriel Ajala and Gary Rathbone, Founder of Sportscape Media, sat down to discuss the recent topics within the sports industry. For this episode, the focus was on the growing influence and links between Saudi Arabia and their recent partnership with CAF and other African Football Associations. We also touched on The Basketball Africa League Season 3 and how this has impacted the landscape.
Timestamp:
- Introduction 0:01
- Noise Disclaimer :) - 03:08
- Collaborations between Saudi Arabia and African Football - 03:16
- Saudi Money coming to African Football - 10:48
- African Super League development and relationship with Saudi Arabia - 16:00
- What could be done in Africa and the NBA growth model - 29:00
In this episode of the ASU Sports Business Podcast, we sat down with the Head of Women's Football at CAF, Meskerem Tadesse Goshime to discuss the recently published CAF Women's Football Landscape Report 2022.
This is the first of its kind report produced by CAF which highlighted the current landscape for each Member Association focused on 3 main areas:
- Development & Participation
- Leagues & Competitions
- Structure & Governance
Our conversation followed the same structure of the report as Meskerem shed some light on each section and the overall benefit of this ground breaking report for Women's Football in Africa.
Timestamp:
Development & Participation - 12:30
- Disparity of level of participation between each Member Association
- What platform is best used to register players?
- How CAF are getting more A Licensed coaches?
- The importance of having a Women’s Football team across U15; U17; U20 & Senior teams?
- Any clear correlations in the success for Member Associations who had teams at all levels?
Leagues & Competitions - 32:15
- Would all top divisions be ideally run by Member Associations?
- What impact does having a titled sponsor have on the sustainability of Women’s Football?
- Importance of regular competitions & matches for Women’s Football?
- Other strategies in place to increase the professionalism of Women’s Football in CAF?
Structure & Governance - 48:00
- How can the level of engagement on social media improve from the Member Associations?
- Are there plans in place to support this?
- Do CAF currently provide any assistance with marketing strategies?
- How would this Landscape report impact the next Women’s Football Strategy plan? - 54:15
- How are CAF collaborating with FIFA on developing Women’s Football? - 58:10
- What is CAF’s biggest achievement & biggest area for improvement? - 1:00:00
Report Link:
https://www.cafonline.com/press-release/news/caf-releases-women-s-football-landscape-report-2022-giving-overview-of-progress-
In collaboration with the African Trade Policy Centre (ATPC) of the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (UNECA) we look at How sport can support the inclusive implementation of the AfCFTA. The African Continental Free Trade Area is the largest single market in the world comprising of 54 member nations as Africa looks to continue its economic growth.
In our 3rd Podcast of the series, Dr Daniel Kelly & Gabriel Ajala produced a round-up of the key findings from their second research project on Youth Entrepreneurship & Consumer Engagement as well as their overall thoughts; findings and recommendations on how the African sports industry and the AfCFTA can further work in tandem to grow, create opportunities and develop economies.
Speakers:
Dr Daniel Kelly
Gabriel Ajala
Timestamp
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Introduction: 00:00 – 04:11
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Research Report 2 Analysis: 05:10 – 07:40
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Sports Manufacturing: 07:50 – 12:51
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Sharing best Practice: 13:00 – 16:35
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Government Support & The Basketball Africa League: 16:50 – 23:15
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Women in sports: 24:45 – 29:45
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Youth Entrepreneurship & Technology: 30:00 – 35:45
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In this episode of the ASU Sports Business Podcast, we sat down with the former defensive midfield maestro now Director of Member Associations Africa for FIFA, Gelson Fernandes, as we discussed the latest cycle of the FIFA Forward Programme.
Launched in January 2023, FIFA Forward 3.0 is the latest cycle of the fund offered to member associations in order to help them develop football in their respective countries with the key categories for investment being Infrastructure; Competitions; Capacity Building; National Teams & Subventions; Other Projects.
Our conversation focused on how African Member Associations can best make the most of this new cycle of FIFA Forward and the plans that Gelson and his team have in growing the level of football in Africa.
Timestamp:
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Introduction: 00:00 - 6:40
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How has FF transformed football for African Member Associations: 9:00 - 11:15
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Changes from FIFA Forward 2.0 & FIFA Forward 3.0: 11:25 - 13:50
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Process of how FIFA Forward funds are allocated or ascertained by the Federations: 14:00 - 16:17
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How best should the Federations allocate the resources: 16:40 - 24:15
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Good examples of how FIFA Forward funds have been used & strategies to engage with the Member Associations on ground: 24:37 - 32:15
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Questions from the floor: 32:20 - 36.30
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The importance of the workshop in Paris for Member Associations: 36:40 - 42:55
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What falls under the “Other Projects” category: 43:00 - 43:55
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Are there any key deadlines that Member Association’s need to be aware of: 44:00 - 45:25
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Investment into Women’s Football: 45:30 - 48:50
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How much is the 2026 World Cup an incentive for African Member Associations to create more history for Africa: 49:00 - 51:55
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Questions from the floor: 52:00 - 57:30
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What is your future for African Member Associations: 57:35 - 59:52
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With the ABBA Formula E circuit taking place in Cape Town for the first time in February 2023, this is evident of the technological innovations advancing the sports industry and impacting how we consume and engage with sports.
This series will look at how key innovations in technology & sustainability have improved the sporting landscape for both business and consumer. With a dedicated focus each day, we will delve into each subject matter.
In our 3rd and final episode of the series, we heard from FIFA on how their new FIFA+ & FIFA Digital Skills platform is helping African Associations. The FIFA Digital Skills Platform was recently launched to help Member Associations develop their expertise in all things digital. Formed as a byproduct of FIFA+, this webinar provided insight into the purpose of FIFA's digitalisation plan and how this platform can best help African Member Associations.
Speakers:
Dave Roberts - Head of MA Digital Services, FIFA+
Solomon Mudege - Head of Development Programmes Africa, FIFA
FIFA Digital Skills Platform: https://fifadigitalskills.org/
Timestamp:
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Intro: 00.30 - 4:07
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FIFA’s drive towards Digital: 4:10 - 6:00
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What Solution is FIFA Digital Skills Solving: 6:10 - 9:00
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How has the roll out and adoption of FIFA+ been & implications of Digital Skills?: 9:15 - 10:45
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How does Digital Skills benefit the African Member Associations?: 11:19 - 14:00
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Why are CAF early adopters?: 14:15 - 16:20
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How does it help the day-to-day running for the MA’s?: 16:30 - 19:57
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Is the platform accessible to anyone else outside of Member Associations?: 20:10 - 23:40
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What is the onboarding process like?: 24:00 - 25:28
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How flexible can the platform become?: 25:40 - 27:45
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What does the roadmap look like to stay ahead of the always moving digital curve?: 27:55 - 35:25
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What problems does this platform help African Associations overcome?: 36:50 - 40:15
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Will skills be recognised as a formal FIFA accreditation?: 42:20 - 44:00
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Metrics on engagement with the Digital Skills Platform: 45:00 - 46:10
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The importance of understanding valuable Data: 46:50 - 48:50
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Do FIFA offer support to local networks?: 49:00 - 50:20
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How can FIFA Digital Skills help accelerate growth and development in Africa?: 51:15 - 53:20
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How can organisations outside of Member Associations gain access to the platform?: 53:40 - 55:55
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What’s Next?: 56:00 - 56:56
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With the ABBA Formula E circuit taking place in Cape Town for the first time in February 2023, this is evident of the technological innovations advancing the sports industry and impacting how we consume and engage with sports.
This series will look at how key innovations in technology & sustainability have improved the sporting landscape for both business and consumer. With a dedicated focus each day, we will delve into each subject matter.
In our 2nd episode of the series, we heard from the Sisu Sports Management team about their new platform: Uburu Africa. Uburu Africa is a college recruitment tool developed by SISU Africa aimed at increasing players’ accessibility to US college recruitment staff.
Speakers:
Lindi Ngwenya - Founder, Uburu Africa
Doeju Momolu Goodluck - Co-Founder, Uburu Africa
Moses Aweda - CTO Sisu Sports Manegement
Uburu Africa Website: https://www.uburuafrica.com/
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Intro: 00:00 - 03:55
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Lindi Ngwenya on her experience with Sisu Sports Management: 03:55 - 10:45
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Moses discussing his experience building the platform: 16:45 - 22:35
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Importance of Data Analytics in player acquisition: 22:35 - 30:15
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Tool used to capture the data of players: 30:15 - 35:40
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How organisations deal with broadcast rights: 35:40 - 39:05
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How partners are onboarded to the Uburu network: 39:05 - 44:00
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How the onboarding process works for the collages in the USA: 44:00 - 52:45
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Hurdles they face: 54:32 - 58:30
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What the future holds for Uburu Africa: 58:30 - 01:00:30
Keep up to date with what we are doing by:
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Subscribe to our Newsletter, Here
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Follow us on Twitter | LinkedIn | Instagram | Website
With the ABBA Formula E circuit taking place in Cape Town for the first time in February 2023, this is evident of the technological innovations advancing the sports industry and impacting how we consume and engage with sports.
This series will look at how key innovations in technology & sustainability have improved the sporting landscape for both business and consumer. With a dedicated focus each day, we will delve into each subject matter.
In our 1st episode of the series, we heard from the heart of the eSports industry in Africa in understanding the landscape and trajetcory of the industry. Gamers in Africa grew from 77 million in 2015 to 186 million in 2022 and so we have seen an exponential growth in the space especially amongst the younger generations on the continent.
Speakers:
Ade Jinadu - Head of Marketing & Data, Gamr
Sayo Owolabi - General Secretary, Africa eSports Development Federation
Onyeka Cindy Ojogbo - Director, Centurion Law
Timestamp:
-
Intro: 00.00 - 03:05
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Journey of Gamr Africa: 03:05 - 07:00
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Challenges on capturing data: 7:00 - 11:40
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Opportunities in eSports: 11:40 - 15:00
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The role of AEDF: 15:00 - 23:10
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Governance issues in eSports: 23:10 - 29:40
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Concerns of the current market: 29:40 - 35:40
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Importance of education: 35:40 - 37:50
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Q&A: 37:50 - 01:05:50
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Saudi Arabia & Malaysia having stable eSport ecosystems: 01:05:50 - 01:10:15
Links:
Gamr - https://gamr.africa/
Global eSports Federation - https://www.globalesports.org/
Centurion Law Group - https://centurionlg.com/
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In our third and final episode of our Women in Sports Series, we focused on the importance of leadership and having women take up positions of leadership. We have seen countries with growing economies have women in positions of leadership. Can this be translated in Sports? What is the benefit of doing so and how can we play our part in supporting such?
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In our second episode of our Women in Sports Series, we focused on things at the grassroots level. Football is a huge tool for good and this episode allowed us hear from those using football to educate and engage with women.
We also hear how CAF School's Program is engaging with the youth of Africa and how they are going about growing this new tournament and engaging with African youth.
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In the first episode of the Women in Sports series, we had the privilege of hearing from the custodians of both UEFA & CAF who are playing a pivotal role in developing women's football in both Europe & Africa.
With the UEFA Women's tournament breaking new records for attendance and engagement and CAF launching their new strategy for women's football, our panelists provided more insight into their growth strategy, challenges and how to further develop women's football.
In this podcast, we were joined by Andy Howes, Director & Co-Founder of AfroSports, a sports hub connecting sports with fans in Africa & Diaspora across all viewing platforms. With over 20 years experience in the Pan-African sports space, Andy touched on engaging with local sports and the part they played in distributing the AFCON 2021 Media Rights across Africa, working with the AUB. We also spoke on the relationships between Free-to-air TV vs PayTV, weighing out the pros and cons of both and their uniqueness in the African market. AfroSport have also launched a 24/7 TV channel in Nigeria, are about to launch in the Caribbean and have also developed an app (‘Optimeyes Africa’) which is an excellent fan engagement platform.
Part 1 · 00:00 - 02:20 -: Introduction · 02:20 - 08:40 -: Growth of AfroSports · 08:40 - 13:20 -: Change in consumption habits · 13:20 – 17:30 -: Increased engagement in local sports Part 2 · 17:30 - 21:45 -: AFCON Media Rights distribution · 27:55 – 31:55 -: Broadcasting on Nigerian · 31:55 – 35:55 -: Broadcasting in the Caribbean · 35:55 - 39:43 -: Fans Connect App
ASU Mindshare event: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/asu-presentsmindshare-tickets-353297691907
AfroSports: https://afrosport.tv/
For more podcast: https://asunified.com/podcast Follow the podcast details on: Twitter: @ASUnified | LinkedIn: Africa Sports Unified | Instagram: @asunified
In this Podcast we were joined by Zarina Badhur, Head of Operations at GOAL Africa
The Sports Business industry is still in its infancy on the continent. In order to develop a sustainable market, there needs to be a well equipped work force. Education is the foundation of this and so we discuss the importance of that and also developing soft skills necessary for the industry to grow.
TimeStamp: 00:00 – 02:40 - Intro
03:00 – 04:50 - Perception of professionalisation in the industry
05:05 – 11:29 - Soft skills to develop
11:45 – 17:25 - Ways to develop professionalisation & soft skills
19:50 – 24:40 - What can sports execs do to increase the level of professionalisation in sports:
24:48 – 25:27 - Interlude
25:40 – 30:30 - How to find a mentor
30:40 – 38:43 - The Importance of Good Leadership & An effective workforce
38:55 – 44: 20 - Entrepreneurship
In this Podcast we were joined by Nqobile Ndlovu, Founder of CashNSport.
We took a look back on the successfully run Sponsors & Media Rights of AFCON and how President Motsepe has so far done at the helm of CAF in including the new 10 step plan to improve CAF & how new sponsors and partners are getting attracted towards Africa.
Further key points were made on how organisations are looking to engage with younger audience and the scope of better sponsorship and partnership in African sports tournament was discussed.
You can contact & follow Nqobile via the following platforms: Website: https://cashnsport.com/ Facebook: Cash N Sport Twitter: https://twitter.com/CashNSport?t=5BuvYPQ3svHMMcMrSWo5eA&s=09 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCc7YZsqwB_6ZTuxTzk6miHQ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/cash-n-sport/
For more podcast: https://asunified.com/podcast Follow the podcast details on: Twitter: @ASUnified | LinkedIn: Africa Sports Unified | Instagram: @asunified
Timestamp: • 00:00 - 01:40 -: Introduction; About podcast and speaker Nqobile Ndlovu • 01:40 - 03:10 -: What is Cash N Sport and were people can find Cash N Sport • 03:10 - 10:50 -: Broadcasting and media rights issues with CAF deal • 10:50 – 23:00 -: About new CAF and its new 10 step plan • 23:00 - 28:40 -: TikTok being the biggest social media partner • 28:40 – 32:10 -: Organization looking to engage with younger audience • 32:10 - 35:35 -: Will AFCON, CAF and others will see better sponsorship and partnership; end summary and thank you for listening.
In collaboration with the African Trade Policy Centre (ATPC) of the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa we look at how Sport can support the inclusive implementation of the AfCFTA. The African Continental Free Trade Area is the largest single market in the world comprising of 54 member nations as Africa looks to continue its economic growth.
Recorded last year, this podcast shall focus on Women's Economic Empowerment & Gender Equality, looking at how sports can aid this and the various means and opportunities by which this can happen.
Split over 2 podcasts, Part 2 will cover an excellent 40 minute round table discussion with 3 female leaders in their field.
- Amy Wanday (host) - a social entrepreneur, women's advocate & founder of African Sports Network
- Jean Sseninde - Former Professional Football player & now Director of Women's Football at South Sudan Football Association
- Kimberly Coats - Co-Founder of Team Africa Rising
All these women have and continue to break down barriers and create opportunities in difficult circumstances. We hear on their experiences and how sport can provide both an economic and social empowerment for women.
Timestamp:
00:00 - 02:40 - Introduction 02:40 - 07:05 - Gender Equality & Women in Sports 07:05 - 12:05 - Jean Sseninde's work and the benefit to young girls 12:05 - 20:10 - The importance of empowering Female cyclists 20:10 - 28:15 - Overcoming cultural barriers through sport 28:15 - 37:25 - Lack of investment for women in sports 37:25 - 45:49 - What needs to done to advance women in sports
It's been a big week in the world of Football with the Launch and subsequent Closure of the European Super League.
We have a fantastic conversation with Sean Hamil, Sports Economist and Academic at Birkbeck University of London. We touch on: - The importance of Competitive Balance - North American and European Sporting Models - Critical Analysis of the ESL - Post ESL Regulation in Football
In collaboration with the African Trade Policy Centre (ATPC) of the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa we look at how Sport can support the inclusive implementation of the AfCFTA. The African Continental Free Trade Area is the largest single market in the world comprising of 54 member nations as Africa looks to continue its economic growth.
Recorded last year, this podcast shall focus on Women's Economic Empowerment & Gender Equality, looking at how sports can aid this and the various means and opportunities by which this can happen.
Split over 2 podcasts, Part 1 will cover an excellent 30 minute conversation with Beatrice Chaytor, a Senior Services Expert at the African Union Commission, on the trade opportunities for women and how the AfCFTA looks to further support and encourage female entrepreneurship and economic empowerment.
Timestamp:
00:00 - 02:30 - Introduction 02:30 - 05:20 - The advantages AfCFTA brings to the African Sports Industry 05:20 - 09:20 - How Sports academies can empower and create opportunities 09:20 - 13:40 - Lessons that AfCFTA can learn 13:40 - 18:10 - How AfCFTA is providing opportunities for women 18:10 - 23:00 - What barriers do women face and how can the AfCFTA provide support 23:00 - 28:25 - How Sports can help Africa diversify its market 28:25 - 36:09 - The scope of the digital market in sports
In collaboration with the African Trade Policy Centre (ATPC) of the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (UNECA)we look at ‘How sport can support the inclusive implementation of the AfCFTA’. The African Continental Free Trade Area is the largest single market in the world comprising of 54 member nations as Africa looks to continue its economic growth.
In the first Podcast of the series, we will take a look at how Qatar have used Sports Advocacy to grow their nations and see how the members nations of the AfCFTA can learn from this, if at all possible.
We also examine the importance of Infrastructure, Major Events and the importance of an 'Innovation Hub' to collaborate and accelerate matters for the AfCFTA.
Our guests have a vast knowledge of both Qatar and Africa, having worked in both continents over the years
1st Half: Interview with David Luke 2nd Half: Group discussion with Daniel Kelly & Gerard Akindes
Podcast Guests: David Luke - Coordinator of the ATPC at UNECA & Director at the Commission Dr Daniel Kelly - Academic Director, New York University Dr Gerard Akindes - Adjunct faculty at the University of Salford-Manchester and at North Western University Gabriel Ajala (host) - Founder, Africa Sports Unified
In this episode we discuss an important topic that is wide across the pan-african sports market - the issue of rogue agents and young aspiring players seeking pastures new.
Footballers Connect are an organisation that educate players and what to look for in an agent and best practices to implement in building a career and providing advise so that these youths dont go abroad and are left stranded
We cover: - The lure of aspiring players wanting to go the Asia and remote parts of the world to play football for minimum pay and for nothing - What can local authorities and countries do to minimise the number of youth fleeing to play football abroad - how to distinguish between legitimate and illegitimate agents - Solutions that can be implemented to build a better ecosystem
David Wright has an expansive background in the Football Business, Marketing and Communications world and we discussed the impact of Covid in the Sports Business sector as a whole and how the Sports Events Companies are pivoting in such a time.
in the Second part of the Podcast, we discuss how the importance of tech and innovation has been accelerated in order to find solutions and the sports market as a whole adjusts, with brands and rights holders looking for new ways to create content, engage with fans and monetise.
In this episode we sit down with Ugo Udezue, Founder of the Continental Basketball League (CBL) and leading sports & lifestyle brand, AFA Sports
Split into 2 part we discuss his experience running the first CBL followed by his experience of growing one of the biggest sports and lifestyle brands on the continent.
Ugo is a former NBA agent who found himself moving to Africa where the opportunities became more apparent to him as time went on. An advocate of building a sports ecosystem for Africa, Ugo does not hold back in offering his thoughts on the market.
Part 1: 0 - 31.34 mins Part 2: 32mins onwards
In this episode we Paul Adesoye & Gabriel Ajala have a sit down conversation with Nigerian International, Leon Balogun.
We cover his early childhood growing up in Germany; his early career from Germany to England; his experience playing at World Cup 2018; his work with CommonGoal and passions outside of sport.
We finish with a short Q&A on his Nigerian teammates to know who is who in the locker room.
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In this episode we have an in-depth conversation with Koye Sowemimo, owner of KS Management about progressive and developing African Sports Business Market.
We cover his early career in The UK working on the London 2012 Olympics + his time at The FA plus much more.
Part 1: - Bobsleigh Federation of Nigeria case study - How the private and public sector van combine to create a sporting ecosystem - Cultural differences between UK + Africa
Part 2: - Building Strategic Partnerships to develop a long term holistic approach - Impact of Covid-19 - Basketball Africa League
You can follow his new agency on socials: www.ksmcompany.com Twitter: ksmcomp Instangram: ksmcomp
Please do like, share + subscribe! Let us know who else you'd like to hear from or topics you'd like us to touch on
We are living through unprecedented times with the covid-19 pandemic forcing people, businesses, industries and economies to readjust put things on hold for an indefinite period.
In this latest episode, Gabriel Ajala + Paul Adesoye take stock of the current climate and discuss industries most affected and those with more opportunities; just how people are coping and the economic impact of it all
Most importantly - we ask for people not to feel isolated and to please reach out to someone if need be to avoid any mental health issues.
We hope you enjoy Team ASU
In this episode, we have an indepth conversation with Mario Leo of Results Sports and Emeka Enyadike of Digital Sports Africa about digital media, data analytics opportunities and the importance of fan engagement/understanding your audience
Part 1: Digital Media - Opportunities in African Football - Africa in comparison to other continents
Part 2: Data & Analytics - Performance Data - Digital Media Analytics - Importance of Fan Engagement
Here is the link to their data on African football clubs: https://asunified.com/report-african-football-clubs-digital-landscape/
Please do leave a comment to share your thoughts and let us know what you think
www.asunified.com
In this episode we speak with the current Principal Social Development Specialist at the African Development Bank Group, Rachel Aron
In this episode, we discuss the following: - The current climate of social development in Africa - How sports can be used as a tool to help drive social development in Africa - The balance and importance between both social and economic development for a nation - African Renaissance and Diaspora Network - Give a Red Card Against All Forms of Violence and Discrimination Against Women and Girls campaign
www.ardn.ngo
In our latest episode we have an in-depth conversation with Gerrit Davids. A former lawyer with a vast experience of the African Sports Market, Gerrit has started many sports ventures and works with rights holders in both Africa & Europe.
We discuss: 1) The importance of Education 2) 6 key pillars of Sports Governance 3) The importance of athlete + player welfare 4) How to improve Sports Business understanding
This is really a powerful interview shining light on the landscape in Africa + the global market as a whole.
Website: www.sportsbusiness.co.za Email: info@sportsbusiness.co.za
www.asunified.com
In this Episode, we have an in-depth conversation with Kimberley Coats and Jock Boyer, founders of Africa Rising Cycling
Kimberley and Jock have a vast knowledge of the cycling scene on the continent having worked in the space for over 17 years with various nations such as Rwanda, Eritrea, Nigeria doing all they can to help raise the level of the sport from building relationships with European teams, send African teams to competitions, fundraising, consulting and providing a strategy for team and nations.
In this episode we discuss we discuss: - Strategies implemented to develop cycling - Obstacles & Challenges for each African region - The importance of Education and Mentors - How seeing Black Africans compete at the major tournaments will help grow the sport - The importance of private investment being used to develop the sport
www.teamafricarising.org Instagram: africarisingcycling Twitter: cyclingafrica Facebook: cyclingafrica
Subscribe to our newsletter: https://asunified.com/ Follow us: https://linktr.ee/ASUnified
In this episode Gabriel Ajala & Paul Adesoye take a diaspora's view on the leading African Sports Business Execs
We mention the likes of Tom Vernon, Masai Ujiri, Amadou Gallo-Fall, Cynthia Mumbo, Kirsty Coventry plus many more.
We discuss their rise in sports and why the stand out to us as an 'Unsung Pioneer' in the Sports Business.
Who else would you include on this list?
Let us know your thoughts
In this episode, we have an in-depth conversation with Alive & Kicking CEO, Ben Sadler
Alive & Kicking are a charity that have been running for 15years who locally source and make footballs in Ghana, Zambia and Kenya.
Working in tandem with The United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals, A+K employ over 1000 staff in those 3 countries and have contributed over £4.5m to the local economies. They focus on Reducing Poverty, Encouraging good health and well-being, reduce inequalities and decent work and economic growth.
In this episode we discuss 1) A+K Business model & impact 2) The Challenges they face as they look to grow 3) The impact that CSR has on the global sports ecosystem and on an economy 4) The making of sporting goods in Africa and 5) How to build long term sustainability in the market
Plus much more
YouTube: www.youtube.com/channel/UCyAykUAfra4uPQzfDFkgq3w Website: www.asunified.com www.aliveandkicking.org
In this episode, we have an in-depth conversation with Emeka Enyadike
Emeka has worked for SuperSport since 2001 as an African Football Analyst and is the Founder of Vandyke sports where he has worked with the likes of Nokia, Nike, Adidas, Indomie & DsTV, to name but a few, on various activations and campaigns
In this episode we focus on: 1)The Sports Business Market in Africa 2) Is the African talent market saturated? 3) How to build trust with International Partners 4) The rise of the NBA in Africa and how Basketball rivals Football as a popular sport on the continent
Plus much more
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCyAykUAfra4uPQzfDFkgq3w
Website: www.asunified.com
In this episode we have a candid conversation with George Chanda - owner of GC Sports Management & Partnerships + Activations Manager at StubHub where he manages the accounts of Everton Football Club, Matchroom Boxing, The Premiership Rugby Final plus more
We discuss: - The current football landscape in Zambia - How to maximise activations - The impact AFCON 2012 had on Zambia - The importance of Partnerships - The endorsements opportunities for African players in their home countries - Exploiting the commercial opportunities for African players in their home countries via partnering with local brands
Plus much more
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/george-chanda-25543739/ website: https://www.gcsportsmanagement.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCyAykUAfra4uPQzfDFkgq3w
In this Episode of the ASU Sports Business Podcast, Gabriel Ajala & Paul Adesoye discuss the growth of sports betting in the African market.
Where there is such a growth and is the good for the african market?
They give an overview of certain markets; Africa's drive for financial inclusion; SportPesa; Balance of Power and the socio-economic impact of betting and gambling on a nation
In this Special ASU Podcast, Gabriel Ajala and Paul Adesoye sit down to discuss the recent ASU event 'An Introduction to the African Sports Market.'
They discuss their key takeaways from the event, highlights and what stood out to them most on what was truly a great event.
For those that attended the event - please complete the survey that was sent to your inbox.
Takeaway Article: https://asunified.com/is-there-a-demand-for-african-sportsbiz-insight/
Enjoy!
In the episode, we welcome back Gary Rathbone, CEO & Founder of Sports News Africa & Africa XP
We have an in-depth discussion on the presentation Gary delivered at Africom 2018 and the current African sports media market.
We Discuss: - What is Africom - The Cycle of Success - How the changes in the global sports media market is having in impact on the African market - LaLiga & Bundesliga case studies - Commercialisation via Digital Advertising - Internet Penetration and Social Media status'
ASU Sports Business Event: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/asu-presents-an-introduction-into-the-african-sports-market-registration-55450964327
Sports News Africa: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCseGp9VA7X5dpiSv2dqkDcQ
In this episode, we have an in-depth conversation with Olukunle Kayode, Founder at Statmetrix.
After working for a leading Fintech company in the City of London, Olukunle saw an opportunity to use Data & Tech in sports. We discuss the current state and explore that opportunities that exist in the African market to develop grassroots football
- Current state of Grassroots Football
- Areas that fall under Grassroots
- FIFA & CAF initiatives to develop grassroots football
- How tech can be used to develop grassroots football
- Solutions that exist to develop grassroots in Africa
- NBA strategy in Africa
- His journey in setting up Statmetrix and being an entrepreneur
Plus Much more
https://statmetrix.co/
in this 8th Sports Business Podcast from ASU, Gabriel Ajala sits down with Paul Adesoye & Aristote Diamos as we discuss whether Racism & Discrimination is on the rise in football.
We discuss the following: - Raheem Sterling, Kalidou Koulibaly & Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang incidents - How authorities can tackle discrimination in football - Is todays Political landscape having an impact on football? - The state of Affairs in Africa
In this podcast Gabriel discusses with Paul & Aristote in depth about the perceived Football slave trade from Africa, based off the recent Tifo video, Claude LeRoy's comments in a BBC interview.
This a topic that goes beyond football, as we discuss historical and cultural reasons as to why Africa is a mine for talent leaving its shores; rogue agents exploiting young talent; player welfare plus much more
Tifo Video - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Vcf7GVGT96Y
BBC LeRoy Article - https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/45624918
African Players in China - http://asunified.com/what-does-the-reduction-of-foreign-players-in-the-chinese-super-league-mean-for-africa/
African Talent Drain - http://asunified.com/how-to-reduce-the-african-talent-drain/
The Scramble for Africa's Athletes - https://foreignpolicy.com/2018/04/20/the-scramble-for-africas-athletes-trafficking-soccer-football-messi-real-madrid-barcelona/
FIFA Regulations - https://resources.fifa.com/image/upload/regulations-on-the-status-and-transfer-of-players-2018-2925437.pdf?cloudid=c83ynehmkp62h5vgwg9g
In this latest episode of Africa Sports Unified podcast, we are back with Gabriel, Paul & Aristote as we discuss the diaspora's view on major sports events & the impact of Senegal making history by hosting the first even Olympics on African soil.
We also discuss:
What exactly is the 'New Norm' initiative The IOC has introduced?
Is hosting a major sporting event more bad than good?
Why has it taken so long for an African country to host an Olympic tournament?
Don't hesitate to leave a comment and let us know your thoughts on certain topics?!?
Please like, share and subscribe and engage with us :)
New Norm: https://www.olympic.org/news/the-new-norm-it-s-a-games-changer
IOC Africa Announcement: https://www.olympic.org/news/ioc-announces-youth-olympic-games-2022-evaluation-commission
Cost of Hosting: https://www.forbes.com/sites/niallmccarthy/2016/08/04/the-massive-cost-of-hosting-the-olympic-games-infographic/#5f2e36c52e38
Hamburg + Boston: https://www.citylab.com/equity/2017/06/how-bostonians-defeated-the-olympics/529155/
In this Episode we have a candid discussion with Cynthia Mumbo, founder of Sports Connect Africa and recent winner of the Leaders 40Under40
Whilst she was in London receiving her award, we had a moment to talk with Cynthia and covered the following: Diversity Sports Governance in Kenya Cynthia's hope and dreams for the sports market
Plus many more!
Have a listen and let us know your thoughts on anything said!
ASU
In this Episode we have an insightful conversation with 3 guys of the diaspora and see our views and thoughts on Sports Business in Africa.
Amongst many things we discuss:
The diaspora's perspective on sports in Africa; How a single currency could impact the continent; Hesitancy for some to get involved in African Sports; and What 1 thing we will introduce to improve the African sports market
Don't hesitate to leave a comment and let us know your thoughts on certain topics?!?
What topics would you like us to discuss next or people who we should get involved in an episode?
Please like, share and subscribe and thanks for all your support :)
In this podcast, we have a detailed conversation with Peter Raymond, course director of the ESA Diploma.
Peter has vast experience in sponsorship and sought to fill a gap in the market by creating a course to educate those within the sponsorship space.
We discuss all things sponsorship; about the ESA diploma; educating the sports industry; the future of sports sponsorship; influencer marketing; CSR & Ethics; The power of the Premier League and the importance of Trust
Recommended Book: 'Good is the new cool' by Afdhel Aziz
ESA Website: https://sponsorship.org/
In this Africa Sports Unified Podcast, we have a detailed conversation with Themba Ndlwana on the sports media landscape in Africa.
Our conversation focused on 2 key areas: 1) Investment in Local African Sports 2) Digital disruption in Africa
Have a listen and be sure to subscribe to our website.
In this first our first Africa Sports Unified Podcast, we had a detailed conversation with Gary Rathbone on the sports media landscape in Africa.
We discuss the current media landscape on the continent and its opportunities; how local sports fare in the market; sports new africa; the growth of the Kenyan & Nigerian Premier League; BT Sports plus much more.
You can watch some clips of Sports News Africa here: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCseGp9VA7X5dpiSv2dqkDcQ