Just follow your Dreams!
That is what the great soccer player Pelé answered to my nervously posed question as to the secret behind his success in 1985. I was 14 and had won a spot in a New York soccer camp through a talent contest.
„What is often missing is a platform”In the same moment that I heard his answer it became obvious to me, the school truant and rebel, that I had to become a professional soccer player. Today, 30 years later and with the experience of many ups and downs in my sports career and later as an entrepreneur, I never forgot Pelé’s words. I think to truly decide on a goal depends a lot on testing oneself and staying curious about life, people and different cultures.
The entire Foundation team and I believe that life offers many exciting possibilities – yet to find one‘s own way and belief in oneself is a lifelong challenge. Young people in particular are searching for meaning and are often left alone with it. On the other hand, experienced people would like to pass on their energy and experiences. What is often missing is a platform that brings young people from all around the world together with experienced and competent individuals to jointly engage in inspiring and motivating activities. With the Dekeyser&Friends Academy, the foundation aims to provide a platform for such encounters.
Many friends from around the world have already become part of our efforts by offering their time, know-how and especially their idealism. We hope many of you reading these lines will join in as well and become part of the Dekeyser&Friends movement.
Yours truly,
Bobby Dekeyser
Founder and Chairman of the Board, Dekeyser&Friends Foundation