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Newcastle United Foundation's Ismael Bamba named Community Champion
Newcastle United Foundation project officer Ismael Bamba has been named Community Champion as part of a Premier League campaign - with a mural installed in his honour close to St. James' Park.
The accolade was presented to Ismael by the Magpies' all-time leading goalscorer Alan Shearer at the unveiling of the mural on Morden Street, which has been created to celebrate his impact on the local community.
Presentations to Captains from clubs across the country form part of the Premier League's 'More Than a Game' campaign, which celebrates those who deserve recognition for their commitment and contribution to the game and society.
On receiving the award, Ismael said: "When I first came here, it was a great change for me. I loved it and I met new people through the Foundation's Premier League Kicks sessions so I can relate to a lot of the participants we support.
"We have a huge amount of diversity in terms of backgrounds, so it's great to support the participants who use these sessions to come together and use football to create positive change in their lives."
Ismael moved to Newcastle in 2006 as a child, escaping conflict during the first Ivorian civil war. He soon made friends and found comfort in attending Premier League Kicks sessions where he enjoyed free, supervised football with Foundation coaches.
As a teenager, Ismael - known as Ish - began volunteering at Kicks in Newcastle, and was then employed as a community coach with the Foundation. Using confidence gained at Premier League Kicks sessions, Ish has helped support others to enjoy socialising, playing and meeting new people.
Shearer added: "One of the things I love the most about football is its ability to bring people together on and off the pitch and provide opportunities within communities everywhere.
"I think Ismael epitomises what it means to be a Community Captain – he's a true role model who inspires others and leads by example. He is a credit to Newcastle United and the club's Foundation.
"I was lucky enough to have fulfilled all my dreams as a professional footballer, but my first experience of competitive football – like so many others – came at grassroots level. Premier League funding benefits every part of the game and is integral to its ongoing strength."
The 'More Than A Game' campaign - which will be visible at matches between 17th and 26th February - aims to showcase the Premier League's world-leading investment into all levels of football and funding for club community programmes positively impact the lives of millions.
Community Captains will be celebrated on Premier League and club channels over the next two weeks. To find out more, click here.
For more information about the Foundation and programmes near you, visit nufoundation.org.uk.