The Basketball Africa League (BAL) is set to launch the second edition of its “BAL Future Pros” program, a unique initiative aimed at supporting early-career professionals in building their careers within Africa’s sports industry.
In its fourth season, the program, which debuted last year, recruited 22 young professionals for roles across various departments of the BAL. Since then, five participants have been offered permanent positions within the league.
The program’s second edition will kick off with a webinar on September 20, featuring BAL President Amadou Gallo Fall and BAL Ambassador Ian Mahinmi, who will mentor the selected participants throughout the season. The webinar will also include testimonials from previous participants and executives, highlighting the program’s impact on their career development. Applications for the second cohort will open later in September.
Starting December 2, 2024, the new group of BAL Future Pros will embark on a one-year work experience. Fourteen individuals will be placed in various BAL departments in Senegal and other African nations. The program is open to graduates from professional or technical schools, as well as those with a bachelor’s, master’s, or higher degree and a minimum of two years of professional experience. Applicants must be eligible to live and work in Senegal or other participating countries.
Successful candidates will be placed in one of the eleven operational departments of the BAL, which include marketing, player programs and social responsibility, public relations and communications, events management, logistics, business development, marketing partnerships, digital production, merchandising, travel, and hospitality. In addition, they will benefit from workshops on the sports ecosystem, project management skills, and personalized coaching and leadership mentoring.
Henok Ahadji, a 21-year-old Togo native who worked in the Travel & Hospitality Department during the first edition, shared his experience: “I worked on projects I never expected and gained invaluable professional skills. This program offers a unique opportunity for both personal and professional growth, and I highly recommend it to any young professional seeking a career in the sports industry.”
Similarly, 24-year-old Senegalese participant Matteo Diagne, who worked in the content department, expressed: “Not only did I work in a field I’m passionate about—basketball—here in Africa, but I also met inspiring individuals I wouldn’t have encountered otherwise. The BAL Future Pros program offers a real chance to showcase your skills and thrive in a dynamic, multicultural environment.”
BAL Ambassador and Future Pros Mentor Ian Mahinmi added: “Our commitment to the BAL Future Pros is as strong as our commitment to our players. I’m proud to say that this program is truly unique, offering unparalleled experience within the African sports industry.”
The BAL Future Pros program emphasizes career opportunities off the court, aiming to develop future sports industry leaders. Through this initiative, the BAL is cultivating local talent and contributing to a sustainable and thriving sports ecosystem across Africa.