The Fulham and Nigeria midfielder explains why Project 17 is only just getting started and how football can be used to change lives beyond the pitch.
Alex Iwobi Project 17.
For Alex Iwobi, football has always been about more than what happens during 90 minutes on the pitch.
The Fulham midfielder has spent years building Project 17, an initiative designed to bring communities together through football while supporting causes that matter to him personally.
What began as a small tournament has evolved into an annual event featuring multiple age groups, boys and girls, adults and families, all united by a shared love of the game.
But for Iwobi, the football is only one part of the story.
Why Project 17 Started As A Community Initiative
Project 17 was founded with a simple objective: use football as a vehicle to bring people together.
Each year, the event hosts a tournament that continues to grow in both size and impact.
Speaking exclusively to Striver.Football at Project 17, Iwobi explained how the initiative has evolved from a small football event into a growing community project with a wider purpose.
"We put on a summer event every year where it's like a tournament," Iwobi explained.
"It started off with just two teams, but now it's different age groups, under-12s and under-13s, and then the adults. Girls are allowed to participate as well."
The growth reflects Iwobi's desire to create something that feels accessible to everyone, regardless of age, gender or background.
"We do that so we can bring the community together as well as raise awareness of the charity."
Why Giving Back Has Always Been Part Of Iwobi's Journey
While many footballers launch foundations later in their careers, Iwobi's motivation stems from lessons he learned long before becoming a Premier League player.
Growing up, he watched his parents consistently support others whenever they could.
"It's important to me because I've grown up in a household where my mum and dad, especially my dad, likes to give back to anyone," he said.
Whether helping people locally or supporting communities abroad, generosity was a value embedded within the family.
"If he's able to do that and I have the influence and the power that I do, I'd like to do the same thing."
For young footballers, it is a reminder that success is not only measured by achievements on the pitch but also by the impact you have away from it.
Why ACLT Became This Year's Charity Partner
This year's Project 17 event partnered with the African Caribbean Leukaemia Trust (ACLT), a charity that raises awareness around blood donation, stem cell donation and conditions such as sickle cell disorder.
For Iwobi, supporting the organisation was a natural fit.
"As an African man, I would like to help out people that are going through situations where they don't have an opportunity to get a blood donor," he explained.
"If I'm able to raise awareness to help someone's life, even if it's just one life, impact one life, it's still amazing for me."
The comment highlights one of the most powerful aspects of athlete influence.
While footballers often inspire supporters through performances, they can also use their platform to educate, raise awareness and support causes that may otherwise go unnoticed.
How Football Can Create Impact Beyond One Community
Although this year's event took place in Bromley, Iwobi sees Project 17 as something much bigger than a single location.
His ambition is to support communities wherever he can make a positive difference.
"I see London as London," he said.
"I'd like to give back to as many communities as I can, whether it's in London, whether it's in Nigeria, I've done Ireland."
For Iwobi, geography is secondary to impact.
"In any aspects I can influence and help, it doesn't matter what part of the world it is."
That mindset reflects football's unique ability to connect people across different countries, cultures and communities.
Why Project 17's Future Could Be Even Bigger
Many player-led initiatives struggle to survive once a footballer's career ends.
Iwobi hopes Project 17 takes the opposite path.
Asked whether the initiative will continue after retirement, his answer was immediate.
"I hope it don't just carry on, I hope it elevates and becomes bigger."
For him, Project 17 remains a work in progress rather than a finished product.
"It's a journey and it's just a start."
The statement offers an important lesson for young players and aspiring entrepreneurs alike. Building something meaningful takes time, patience and a long-term vision.
Representing Nigeria Through Purpose As Well As Football
As a Nigeria international and one of the country's most recognisable athletes, Iwobi understands the responsibility that comes with his platform.
Millions of supporters follow his journey, but he hopes they see something beyond the footballer.
"A lot of people look up to me and see me as an idol," he said.
"I just want to showcase to everyone that at the same time I'm still a normal person."
More importantly, he wants young people to believe they can achieve even more than he has.
"If anyone wants to be like me, they just have to work hard and they can even achieve more than me."
Ultimately, that belief sits at the heart of Project 17.
Football can create memories, opportunities and inspiration, but for Iwobi, its greatest power may be its ability to bring people together and help others along the way.
