Arsenal and England forward Bukayo Saka has received the 2026 Sócrates Award in recognition of his charitable work and efforts to improve the lives of vulnerable children.
The award, presented at the Ballon d’Or ceremony in London on Monday, 26 October 2026, recognises footballers who use their influence and resources to support humanitarian causes and create positive social change.
Saka’s recognition followed his involvement in initiatives providing medical care to children who might otherwise struggle to access essential treatment.
One of the most moving moments of the ceremony came when the 25-year-old footballer read a letter from Biringiro, a 14-year-old boy from Rwanda whose eyesight began deteriorating when he was just 12.
Through the charity BigShoe, the boy received the eye care he needed, helping him regain confidence and participate more fully in everyday activities.
In his letter, Biringiro described how his deteriorating vision affected his life, particularly his ability to read what his teachers wrote on the classroom blackboard and play with his friends.
Living in a village without electricity, he faced additional difficulties navigating his surroundings. Following treatment, however, he was able to see the classroom board again and continue pursuing his ambition of becoming an English teacher.
Saka has also supported children in Nigeria through his charitable activities. In 2022, he helped fund medical operations for 120 children in Kano through BigShoe, highlighting his commitment to improving access to healthcare for vulnerable young people.
What is the Sócrates Award?
The Sócrates Award was introduced in 2022 by France Football in collaboration with Peace and Sport. Named after Brazilian football legend Sócrates, the honour recognises players who make significant contributions to humanitarian causes, social development and charitable initiatives.
Sócrates, who died in 2011, was renowned not only for his footballing achievements but also for his political activism and advocacy for democracy and social responsibility.
Previous recipients include Senegalese forward Sadio Mané, recognised for his community development work in Senegal, and Brazilian forward Vinícius Júnior, honoured for his education initiatives and anti-racism advocacy. Spanish footballer Jenni Hermoso received the award in 2024, while the Xana Foundation was recognised in 2025.
Why Saka’s Award Matters for Africa
Saka’s recognition highlights the importance of investing in children’s health and education, particularly in communities where access to essential services remains limited.
For many children across Africa, preventable or treatable medical conditions can affect their education, social development and future opportunities. Limited access to healthcare can also place additional pressure on families who cannot afford specialised treatment.
The story of Biringiro demonstrates how timely medical intervention can make a difference to a child’s education, independence and aspirations.
Saka’s work also offers an example of how successful athletes can use their financial resources, public platforms and international networks to support communities beyond the countries in which they compete.
His recognition at the 2026 Ballon d’Or ceremony reinforces the idea that sporting success can extend beyond goals, trophies and individual records.
For Biringiro, the impact is personal. Access to eye care has helped him return to classroom activities and continue working towards his ambition of becoming a teacher.
For Saka, the Sócrates Award recognises a different kind of achievement: using the opportunities created by football to help others build better futures.
EduTimes Africa, a product of Education Times Africa, is a magazine publication that aims to lend its support to close the yawning gap in Africa's educational development.