I grew up in Ethiopia. I love playing soccer and anything with a ball. When I played soccer with my friends in my neighborhood, our soccer balls usually lasted for only a day. They would get destroyed by the rocky terrain, thorny bushes or barbed wire. I always wished for a durable soccer ball that wouldn’t get destroyed so quickly. 

When I was 8 years old, I got an opportunity to travel to New Delhi, India, and spent time at the Angels Academy. I learned how soccer empowers young people, helping them master their emotions and connect with others. I became friends with so many kids in a very short time. That taught me the power of soccer to build a community and friendships outside of your own country. I loved that experience.

When I was 9, I decided to find a way to combine those two experiences and create a business.  I wanted to make the most durable ball and build strong communities  around the world.

I spent my summer hand stitching my first prototype ball. The ball was made of a thick canvas often used on the floor of tents. 

Now I’m 10 years old and I spent the summer of 2022 launching my company, AmaniBall.

My goal with AmaniBall is to provide the world with the most durable ball and at the same time, contribute to community building through the sponsorship of soccer clubs beginning in Ethiopia and India. 

With every AmaniBall purchase, I will contribute 40% of the profits to building soccer camps for many children around the world who can’t afford a ball, don’t have a place to play soccer, or will never get coaching. I also would like to build a program that connects children who can afford an AmaniBall with the kids who can’t, so they can learn what life is like for most kids. I hope AmaniBall becomes a symbol of resilience and connection. 

Thanks for joining the AmaniBall family and contributing to building dreams and connections. Enjoy shopping.

 - Amani E.
August 13, 2022