Empowering Youth through Collaboration: Coca-Cola and National CARES Unite for Future Careers Academy

Empowering Future Leaders: Coca-Cola and National CARES Join Forces

The National CARES Mentoring Movement has proudly announced its collaboration with The Coca-Cola Company, a move aimed at nurturing the next generation of leaders through the Coca-Cola FC (Future Careers) Academy. As we approach the FIFA World Cup 26TM, this partnership is positioned to significantly transform the landscape of opportunity for young people across North America.

The Coca-Cola FC Academy represents an ambitious initiative that combines the excitement of soccer with essential career development processes. Officially started in December, this academy is designed to prepare youth for roles in sports marketing and related fields, providing them with the skills and the confidence necessary to thrive in competitive industries.

Stephen Powell, the Chief Programs and Partnerships Officer for National CARES, expressed enthusiasm about the collaboration, stating, "We are proud to join forces with Coca-Cola on the Coca-Cola FC Academy to help shape the next generation of sports executives." Through the infusion of expertise from seasoned mentors, this collaboration aims to unlock new pathways for youth, enhancing leadership qualities and community connections vital for post-secondary success.

This initiative will primarily focus on empowering youth through various programs, including skills-building workshops, educational resource access, and community leadership events. These efforts are designed not just to equip participants with knowledge but to inspire a sense of purpose within them, enabling them to become impactful leaders in their communities.

Alba Baylin, Vice President of Stakeholder and Social Impact Management at The Coca-Cola Company, highlighted the company’s broader mission: "We live by our purpose to refresh the world and make a difference, and through experiences like the Coca-Cola FC Academy, we're investing in the skills, confidence, and career pathways that help young people succeed."

Coca-Cola's investment staunchly aligns with their commitment to economic development; by focusing on youth leadership and inclusion, they are laying a foundation for long-term community advantages. This partnership aims to promote economic mobility and foster community-driven opportunities that allow participants to seize the moment and maximize their potential.

The collaboration between National CARES and Coca-Cola is set to make waves through community events and youth-led initiatives running well into 2026. These combine both organizations' values and mission for community upliftment, reinforcing the vision of creating lasting positive change across local communities.

As they roll out this initiative, it’s important to note that National CARES Mentoring Movement operates in 58 U.S. cities, deploying trained volunteers to offer essential mentoring support. By creating a supportive environment for youths living in poverty, National CARES helps them equip themselves to manage today’s challenges and emerge as responsible, effective adults in the future, a vision echoed in the Coca-Cola partnership.

Thus, as National CARES and Coca-Cola deftly join forces, they pave the way for young leaders to not only participate in sports but also to have a stake in the industries surrounding it, enhancing their communities and elevating their own lives through the opportunities they create. The Coca-Cola FC Academy truly signifies a leap toward a brighter future for these young individuals.

For further details on the academy or to learn about the exciting opportunities available, please visit: Coca-Cola FC Academy.