July 1, 2025 – In an inspiring and transformative step for African golf, the Afriyea Golf Academy in Uganda has officially launched its first-ever Global Golf Mentorship Programme. Unveiled on 18th June 2025, the launch brought together mentors, mentees, and families from different corners of the globe in a moment of celebration, purpose, and promise. With 32 highly accomplished mentors representing 11 countries, this marks the beginning of a mentorship movement that will impact lives far beyond the golf course.

The programme the first of its kind in Uganda and the wider East African region is designed to connect aspiring young golfers with an international network of golf professionals, industry leaders, greenkeepers, sustainability champions, authors, broadcasters, and business experts. At its core, the initiative is about more than just golf: it’s about guiding young people through personal growth, leadership, and lifelong learning.

“This is more than just golf. It’s a movement to inspire hope, character, and community,” said Isaiah Mwesige, CEO of Afriyea Golf Academy. “We’re not only matching children with professionals; we are connecting them to stories, dreams, and expertise. Golf has the power to shape a better world, and this mentorship programme is a major step in that direction.”

The impressive roster of mentors includes notable names from across the golf world such as Simon Holmesand Richard Kaufman of Sky Sports, Sarah Bennett, PGA Fellow Professional, Director of Sarah Bennett Golf Schools and former PGA Captain of UK & Ireland, Kristian Kohn of Green Up Golf Tees (Denmark), Jennifer Mackinnon from Earl Grey Golf Club in Canada, and Dr. Michael Ryan, an elite performance psychologist based in the UAE. Tony Pennock, Graeme Love from England Additional supporters include Tony Dear, Mark Gundry, Jason Dochney (USA), and David Crawley from Switzerland.

Ian McDonald, co-founder of Catch the Light in Scotland, shared his thoughts: “Throughout my professional career, I have been drawn to work that facilitates building community capacity and individual agency with a particular focus on the social and personal development of young adults, especially those identified as disengaged or hard to reach.”

“My experience as a residential social worker, street worker, and senior manager with a local authority informed my passion, discipline, and desire to explore ways of learning that are expansive, exciting, experiential, and designed to support people to be the best versions of themselves.” 

“In 2006, I co-founded Catch the Light Youth and Community Development to create and deliver innovative learning programs aimed at developing personal qualities and widening horizons for people lacking the confidence and self-esteem to achieve their life goals. Over my years of practice, I have developed a good understanding of the barriers that challenge the development of effective partnerships across professions and sectors. This knowledge, combined with a fundamental belief in the benefits of what can be achieved through positive partnership working, underpins my interest in promoting the idea that it takes a “village to raise a child,” and in that context, I see myself as one of the villagers here to give support to people on their life journey.”

Jim Ferguson, Director at Turnkey Golf in Ireland, added: “This programme is a powerful reminder that golf is more than a sport it’s a tool for transformation. These young people are not only tomorrow’s golfers, they’re tomorrow’s leaders.”

Terry Mellish, past Captain of Colchester Golf Club, also pledged his support after hosting Isaiah in the UK: “Seeing Isaiah’s passion up close was truly humbling. His vision for this programme is something we all should get behind.”

From Lincolnshire, Brad Gould, Managing Director at Woodhall Spa, said: “It’s humbling to witness the purpose and drive behind this grassroots initiative in Uganda. The talent is already there what they need is opportunity, encouragement, and belief. This programme is exactly that.”

Other leading voices backing the initiative include Georgina Childs, PGA Professional and Business Development Manager at Golf.One; Jorge Croda of Croda Consulting (USA); and Mark Marais, Joseph McKnight and Dr. Peter Bolan from Ireland.

On the innovation front, the programme features mentors like Wieser Juergen, the Austrian inventor of the Grip Caddie, Cameron Ellis (CEO, Caddy Spike – Canada), and Thomas Schier (TJ), CEO of SmashSwing Immersive (USA).

Sustainability is a cornerstone of the programme, with Australian eco-leaders Monina Gilbey and Kateguiding mentees on how to integrate environmental awareness and responsibility into golf. The programme is already exploring ways to embed greenkeeping and eco-conscious practices into golf education for young players.

The mentorship experience is primarily delivered through virtual platforms, allowing children from Uganda to engage in regular, meaningful conversations with their international mentors. This cross-border connection is designed to expand worldviews, build confidence, and provide a rare opportunity for youth in underserved communities to learn from the best minds in the global golf landscape.

The official launch saw participation from mentors, mentees, and parents all of whom expressed immense appreciation and excitement. For many of the families, it was the first time their children had received such focused attention, encouragement, and exposure from international professionals.

As Isaiah Mwesige reflected: “This is Uganda’s moment to show the world what happens when passion meets opportunity. We are deeply thankful to every mentor who has come on board. They are not only standing with us but more importantly, they are standing with our children.”

Brad Gould offered a heartfelt reflection: “It’s a privilege to be involved in something that brings people together from all walks of life  from beginners to seasoned players. Golf offers benefits that go far beyond the game itself: social connections, physical wellbeing, mental strength. Like life, it has its frustrations, but every round offers a new lesson. I’m proud to support this next generation of young golfers in any way I can.”

As the programme begins to grow, Afriyea Golf Academy is actively welcoming more mentors to join. The goal is to continue expanding this vibrant network of global changemakers willing to share their time, knowledge, and inspiration with children from less privileged communities shaping not just the future of golf, but the future of young lives.

If you would like to become a mentor contact Isaiah Mwesige or speak to the mentors. More information at isaiahmwesige@gmail.com or info@afriyeagolfacademy.com.