Nicholas Kawalya: 7-year-old St Julian Sports Academy youngster nominated in 2025 African Children of the Year awards

It is no mean feat to make any shortlist for a nomination during awards nationally, on the continent or globally. For Nicholas Kawalya, a seven-year-old midfielder of St Julian Sports Academy, his nomination in the upcoming 2025 African Children of the Year Awards has already drawn five-star applause. The Primary Three pupil of Juliana Junior School in Gayaza has been nominated in the Sports and Recreation category in the 7 to 13 years cluster. These awards will happen on Saturday, 22nd November at Profound Conference 181 Corlett Drive, Bramley in Johannesburg, South Africa. For starters, this will be the 7th time that such awards will be organised. The mother, Winnie Nantambi, is exceedingly delighted upon the son’s nomination for such continental awards. “Our biggest high as his parents is to develop his career and try to help him become a professional player. We cannot wait to see him playing for his school, community, county, country, and standing on big pitches,” Nantambi testifies. Nantambi mentions high stakeholders in the soccer fraternity like former FUFA deputy president late Darius Mugoye, Masato Tsuchiya, Asaph Kalumba, Yusuf Kinene and St Julian Schools Sports manager Mbuga Swaibu and others. Nicholas Kawalya Nitty Gritty Nicholas Kawalya was born on a bright Thursday, 16th March 2017, to Winnie Nantambi and James Kalanzi. His love for soccer was spotted by his parents at four years, and his career became a reality when he joined the primary one at Juliana Junior School, a member of the St Julian Schools. Currently, Kawalya is in primary three, and last year, 2024, he was named the youngest player on the pitch at St Julian Sports Academy. His love for sports is traced to his father, James Kalanzi, who played soccer in high school at Mende Kalema High School in Wakiso. Also, Kawalya is related to former Bright Stars FC player Joseph Mubiru, who is his Uncle. Mubiru also played for Friends of Football, Villa Young, Ndejje University. About Annual African Children of the Year Awards (ACOTYA) The Annual African Children of the Year Awards (ACOTYA) were founded by 18-year-old Stacey Fru, an international multiple award-winning South African Child Author and Activist. They are organized to honour children across Africa who are making a difference in their communities with the aim to build an African of children who boldly say “I CAN” by representing fellow children, motivating their peers, showcasing creativity and innovation, and empowering others through action. The awards are envisioned to grow up, growing minds, and a set goal to see children grow into their full potential in life, community, and future businesses. Categories 1. Art and Culture – creativity and cultural expression 2. Education and Skills development – academic excellence or teaching others 3. Philanthropy – Acts of giving and charity 4. Leadership – Positive influence in school, church, or community 5. Community Development/Engagement – Outstanding contributions to community growth 6. Motivation/Personal Development – Inspiring Peers to flourish 7. Science & Technology – Innovation and problem-solving 8. Sports & Recreation – Exceptional performance and passion 9. Safety & Security – Promoting safety in homes, schools, or communities 10. Entrepreneurship – Developing and managing business ventures 11. Special Mention – For children under 7 or aged 14, selected by the foundation