A 16-year-old Kenyan footballer in the United States has made history as the only African finalist in the prestigious Youth Athlete of the Year 2025 competition, a global contest that honours young athletes for grit, teamwork, and determination. Eastleigh voice reports.
Ethan Henry is now rallying for votes to secure the top prize, which includes $25,000 (Sh3.2 million) and a feature in the 3BRAND campaign in Sports Illustrated. This platform would give him international visibility.The competition is about more than personal achievement. It also uplifts communities by supporting two causes: The V Foundation, which funds cancer research, and the Why Not You Foundation, which empowers young people.
Addressing his fans on social media, Ethan expressed gratitude to those who have already voted and shared his journey online.
Need for public support
He stressed that while his nomination recognises his skill and talent, winning depends on public support.
He urged supporters to vote daily, share his campaign on social media, and help him secure the title — not just for himself, but for Kenya and the African continent as a whole.
“I believe through everyone’s votes, I will win this, and it will be for my country and my people back home. Being a finalist is already big for me, and being named Youth Athlete of the Year will be a dream come true for my career in football, a game so dear to me,” he said.
Focused on his dream
Ethan has been playing football since the age of six. After moving from Kenya to the US, he has remained focused on his dream of playing professionally and representing his country. He is currently ranked first in his group, with voting open until Thursday, September 4, 2025, at 7 pm.
Supporters can vote for free at: https://athleteoftheyear.org/2025/ethan-1b78.
