Charmaine Williams Meets CEO Yomi Kuku, Endorses Community Initiative and Honors Organization for Its Contributions to Football and Storytelling
Charmaine Williams Meets CEO Yomi Kuku, Endorses Community Initiative and Honors Organization for Its Contributions to Football and Storytelling
Ontario’s Associate Minister of Women’s Social and Economic Opportunity, Charmaine Williams, has praised the work of Jersey Number 12 and its founder and CEO, Yomi Kuku, while reaffirming her support for the upcoming Pass on the Ball Festival 2026, a community-focused initiative aimed at empowering young people through sport.
Williams, who serves as the Member of Provincial Parliament (MPP) for Brampton Centre, recently met with Kuku to discuss preparations for the festival and the positive role sport continues to play in building stronger communities.
Following the meeting, the minister highlighted the significance of the initiative and its potential impact on youth development across Brampton and beyond.
“It was a pleasure meeting with Yomi Kuku, Brampton resident and CEO of Jersey Number 12, to learn more about the upcoming Pass on the Ball Festival 2026.”
Williams emphasized that sport remains one of the most effective vehicles for creating opportunities, developing confidence and bringing communities together.
“Sport has a unique way of bringing people together, building confidence, and creating opportunities for young people to grow and thrive.”
As part of her support for the initiative, Williams also added her signature to the organization’s Jersey Autograph Campaign, a project designed to raise awareness for the festival and its broader mission of community engagement through football.
“I was honoured to add my signature to the Jersey Autograph campaign, helping raise awareness for this community-focused initiative and the impact it aims to have.”
The endorsement comes shortly after Jersey Number 12 received a formal recognition from the Government of Ontario through the Office of the MPP for Brampton Centre, acknowledging the organization’s achievements and growing contribution to football culture, storytelling and community engagement.
In a certificate presented on June 11, 2026, Williams recognized Jersey Number 12 on behalf of the Government of Ontario for its accomplishments and impact within the football community.
The citation stated:
“On behalf of the Government of Ontario, and as the Member of Provincial Parliament for Brampton Centre, I recognize the contributions of JerseyNumber12 for your accomplishments and achievements.”
The recognition further praised the organization’s influence in football media and community storytelling.
“In recognition of JerseyNumber12, your passion for football and commitment to authentic storytelling continues to inspire fans around the world. Through insight and unique perspectives, you bring greater depth to the beautiful game and celebrate its rich culture. May your work continue to connect, inform, and inspire communities for years to come.”
The honour represents a significant milestone for Jersey Number 12, which has steadily established itself as a respected voice within football media while simultaneously championing grassroots development and community initiatives.
For founder Yomi Kuku, the recognition underscores the organization’s broader mission of using football as a platform for education, inspiration and social impact.
The upcoming Pass on the Ball Festival 2026 is expected to build on that vision by creating opportunities for young people to engage with sport, mentorship and community programming in an inclusive environment.
Williams concluded her remarks by expressing confidence in the future of the initiative and the people behind it.
“Wishing Yomi and the entire Jersey Number 12 team continued success as they prepare for Pass on the Ball Festival 2026. Looking forward to seeing the positive impact this event will have in our community.”
As preparations continue for the festival, the support from provincial leadership and the recent recognition from the Government of Ontario serve as further validation of Jersey Number 12’s growing influence—both as a storyteller of the game and as a catalyst for positive community impact.
With Pass on the Ball Festival 2026 on the horizon, the organization is poised to continue connecting football, culture and community while inspiring the next generation through the power of sport.
Leave feedback about this