"I was trying to use my real life experience and what I went through when I was younger. I used some strategies of being in the same position as all those kids who come from families who do not have access into the game of golf. I did some research and discovered that there was a need for a golf academy to create a pathway for these kids to learn and play the game."... Isaiah Mwesige, CEO of The AFRIYEA Golf Academy ______________________________________________ We want to thank our new partner inrange® for presenting this episode of The ModGolf Podcast! inrange® is a radar-based ball-tracking company that enhances the driving range experience by offering the most engaging gameplay and precise ball-tracking on the market. From private clubs and standalone commercial ranges, to multi-storey “Big Box” entertainment venues and limited-flight ‘compact’ ranges, Inrange® creates unparalleled experiences for every type of player - and unleashes your business’ growth potential. They are also the only software in the world offering a bay vs bay link up feature - allowing large groups to play against one another in teams across the entire venue. To learn more check out www.inrangegolf.com. ______________________________________________ "If we are to make a difference in our communities in Uganda we need to build something that is going to create opportunities for anyone to take up golf. No matter the background or gender of these individuals, everyone must be in position to have a chance because golf is still a game that is dominated by older men." Click on the image below to watch our extended conversation with Isaiah on our Youtube Channel! Episode Chapters [02:50] Isaiah shares when he was first introduced to golf and the person who invited him. [04:50] How Isaiah transitioned from caddying to playing at the Toro Club in western Uganda. [06:00] The "AHA moment" that led to the creation of The AFRIYEA Golf Academy. [08:20] The current state of golf in Uganda and how Isaiah is working to change it. [10:50] Early days of The AFRIYEA Golf Academy and how they attracted kids to join the program. [14:20] Growth of The AFRIYEA Golf Academy since launching in 2020. [16:45] Fundraising, partnerships, donations and equipment needs to make the academy sustainable. [18:40] How The AFRIYEA Golf Academy is scaling across Uganda and into other African countries. [20:10] Outreach programs, demonstrations and clinics that introduce golf to rural communities. [22:15] The future for Ugandan golf: more courses, elite level players and career opportunites. [23:40] Success stories from The AFRIYEA Golf Academy. [25:15] Isaiah's thoughts and hopes for the future of Ugandan golf in 5/10/20 years time. To learn more about the impact Isaiah has made positively impacting the lives of Ungandan kids, check out the AFRIYEA Golf Academy website. You can also connect with Isaiah on his bio page. "I was trying to use my real life experience, what I went personally through. I used some strategies to see if I was in the same position as all those kids from families who can't have access into the game of golf. I discovered there was a need to create a golf academy, create a pathway for these kids to play the game of golf. So if we are to make a difference in our community in Uganda, we need something that is going to create opportunity for everyone to play the game of golf. No matter their background, no matter the gender of these individuals everyone must be in position to have an opportunity. However, with creating the AFRIYEA Golf Academy we have been able to change the status quo and make a difference. It's now not only just bringing the people on the golf course, but for us we believe we can be in position to take the game where people are instead of bringing people where golf is." ____________________