CHICAGO, Ill. - The cheers that follow
Hilary Odhiambo on the soccer field at Chicago State University are loud, but they don't compare to the voices that greeted him back home in Nairobi. When the senior forward returned to Kenya, it wasn't to celebrate his own success—it was to share it. Odhiambo spent his time giving back to the community that raised him, offering mentorship, equipment, and hope to young players who see in him what he once saw in himself: possibility. His journey is less about the goals he scores in Chicago and more about the lives he touches in Nairobi, proving that the true measure of an athlete isn't just in the game, but in the legacy they leave behind.
My journey in life has been fueled by the unwavering support of my family and community back home in Nairobi, Kenya. Growing up in a humble neighborhood, I was blessed to have a tight-knit circle of relatives, friends, and neighbors who believed in my dreams. Their encouragement and sacrifices paved the way for my athletic and academic pursuits. Despite the miles that now separate us, my heart has always remained connected to the streets that raised me.
I've never forgotten where I came from, and my community continues to be my source of inspiration, strength, and purpose. As a student-athlete at Chicago State University, I'm driven by the desire to give back to the place and people that mean everything to me.
A full-circle moment
This past summer, I had the opportunity to organize the Future Stars U18 Tournament in Dagoretti Corner, Nairobi, the community where I was born and raised. After spending four years in the United States as a student-athlete at Chicago State University, I felt it was important to use the game of football to give back to the young people at home. The tournament brought together eight U18 teams from the area, giving talented boys a platform to compete, improve, and be seen.
The level of passion and discipline from the players made the event special. In the end, Santos Soka were crowned champions, but the real victory was the energy, teamwork, and pride shown by every team that participated. Alongside the tournament, we hosted a charity event focused on supporting young athletes who do not have access to basic football resources.
With the help of friends, teammates, and supporters from the U.S. and Kenya, we donated cleats, uniforms, training kits, soccer balls, goalkeeper gloves, bags, and other equipment. This donation drive made a huge difference. Many of the kids played in proper gear for the first time in their lives, and seeing their excitement reminded me why giving back matters.
The goal is not only to support their football development, but also to inspire them, encourage education, and show them that their dreams are possible. The Future Stars Tournament is more than a competition, it's a step toward building opportunities, creating hope, and strengthening the community that raised me. And this is only the beginning. More events, mentorship, and support are planned as we continue growing the vision.
A reminder
Going back home and being able to give back honestly made me feel proud, grateful, and emotional all at the same time. After being away for four years, returning home and seeing the same streets, the same people, and the same struggles reminded me where my journey started. Being able to show up with gear, uniforms, and opportunities for the young boys felt like a full-circle moment. Giving back made me feel connected to my community again, and it reminded me that my success is meaningful when it helps lift others. It gave me peace, motivation, and a deeper purpose to keep going and keep giving.
The power of sports and education
I come from a very humble background. I grew up not having the things that I have now. I used to play barefoot. So whenever I have an extra cleat, all I think about is that kid back home that's struggling to get cleats and he has talent. That's why I always give back. I truly believe sports and education have the power to transform lives. They certainly transformed mine. That's why I'm committed to paying it forward and providing opportunities for the next generation of athletes, students, and leaders. I want to show them that their dreams are within reach and that they have the support of their community behind them.
An incredible support system
I couldn't have organized the Future Stars Tournament or the charity event without the help of my friends, family, teammates, and supporters. They donated equipment, shared their expertise, and volunteered their time to make these initiatives a reality. I'm incredibly grateful for their generosity, dedication, and belief in my vision. Their efforts have made a lasting impact on the lives of countless young athletes in Nairobi.
A bright future
As I continue my journey as a student-athlete at Chicago State University, I remain committed to giving back to my community in Nairobi. The Future Stars Tournament and charity event were just the beginning. I'm excited to continue working with my friends, teammates, and supporters to create more opportunities, provide resources, and inspire the youth in my hometown. Together, we can make a difference and build a brighter future for the next generation. I'm blessed to be able to give back to the community that gave me everything. Their love and support have been the foundation of my success, and I'll continue to honor and uplift them in everything I do.
