Besides bringing a distinctive blend of legal expertise and corporate know-how to the table, this young man appears to be driven by the sincerest form of compassion and commitment. In the latest edition of #InsideBBFS, let’s dive into the heartwarming journey of Akash Tiwari, a passionate member of the Sponsorships and Partnership team at the Bhaichung Bhutia Football Schools (BBFS) not-for-profit entity, the Indian Football Foundation (IFF). 

After earning his  BA.LLB. (honours) from HNLU, Raipur, Akash initiated his career in law with roles at Thomson Reuters and Ernst and Young in 2013. Even as he completed his successful fourth year at Ernst and Young, Akash couldn’t ignore his lingering passion for sports. After researching a potential opportunity within the same field, he realised that a long-term career in the sports industry was very much possible.

Akash’s journey took a detour when he followed his passion and pursued a master’s in sports management at the Catholic University of Murcia (UCAM), Spain, in 2018-2019. After his brief tenure with a sports marketing agency in Madrid, he returned to India in 2019 to be with his family. While Akash was here, he came across BBFS and was inspired by its association with football legend, Bhaichung Bhutia. But it was BBFS’ vision of working towards scholarships for economically weaker section (EWS) students that motivated him to take his next step- Akash joined BBFS on February 17, 2019. 

Giving us insight into the passion that underlines his work, here’s what Akash had to say about what makes BBFS truly special for him: “For me, it’s the culture that the organisation promotes. The kind of values that they want to inculcate in the institution is something I admire. There’s freedom here.”

When asked about his role, Akash sheds light on the kind of work he does at BBFS. With a legal background for tasks like drafting and reviewing contracts, as a sponsorship manager, he secures funds for IFF by reaching out to potential partners, leveraging CSR funds, and finding collaborators. With the aid and assistance of his teammates, Akash also looks for partners for sports infrastructure projects and supports coach education through fund allocation. His main focus is on the initial stages of fundraising and partnership outreach. “I enjoy my job. I’m driven by the fact that I can raise funds for these incredibly talented kids, who are otherwise held back due to financial constraints. My favourite part is seeing them achieve greater heights. It’s a satisfying feeling.”

Over the years, Akash’s role has evolved from the Marketing team to the Sponsorships and Partnerships team at BBFS. But he admits that it’s not just about professional growth for him. For Akash, it’s about team effort that spans the globe. “Despite our dispersed locations, we’ve cultivated trust and empathy amongst ourselves. Our shared passion for football unites us.” 

Reflecting on his four years in this whirlwind of football and dreams, Akash is grateful for the chance to live out his passion. “I’ve acquired valuable lessons. One of the most significant things that I’ve learned involves understanding our team’s approach to securing financial support for our scholars.”

He encourages those eyeing a spot in the BBFS squad to see it as an excellent entry point into India’s sports industry. “Beyond professional growth, BBFS focuses on the importance of human values and personal development. It’s a rewarding environment to begin a career.”

Akash’s journey serves as an inspiring testament to the transformative power of sports in changing lives and nurturing dreams.

And, I think I speak for everyone when I say that all the work that goes into helping kids, pays off, when these kids get a chance to reach their potential and make their dreams a reality.