Stormzy, the U.K. rapper and grime star, has announced the launch of #Merky FC, an industry career program dedicated to enhancing and protecting diverse representation.
Aside from his upcoming third studio album, Stormzy has a number of non-music ventures, such as #Merky books, a publishing imprint that gives both established and emerging Black authors a platform.
For example, besides his philanthropic efforts, Big Mikey has his own charity, the #Merky Foundation, which annually grants full-ride scholarships to Black students to study in the U.K.'s top university.
As a result of this, Stormzy has moved on to other avenues including football with #Merky FC.
The new initiative provides young footballers in the U.K. with mentorship and opportunities to work at companies, with adidas and 10 of the best football-affiliated companies going the extra mile to change the game.
And while #Merky FC is open to all, applications are specifically encouraged to come from candidates aged 18-24 who identify as Black or mixed Black heritage.
The launch of a new football initiative has surfaced following research that has been commissioned by adidas in collaboration with FARE Network. They found that only 6.7% of senior football positions are occupied by a person who identifies as Black or mixed Black heritage.
Furthermore, 64% of Black British young people aspire to be professional footballers, yet only 0.012% make it to the Premier League.
Candidates can visit the $
$ to be a part of the nationwide application process now.