The 2026 Ballon d'Or awards took place on October 26, 2026, in London, England. During the ceremony, Bukayo Saka received the Sócrates Award for his philanthropic efforts with the BigShoe organization, which provides medical assistance to underprivileged children, particularly those in need of surgery. As Saka accepted the award, he read a heartfelt letter from Byiringiro, a 14-year-old boy from Rwanda.
Byiringiro's letter expressed his gratitude to Saka for providing him with the confidence to pursue his dreams. At the age of 12, Byiringiro began losing his sight, which significantly impacted his daily life. He described the challenges he faced in his rural community without electricity and how his declining vision made it difficult for him to navigate his surroundings. However, after receiving medical treatment through BigShoe, Byiringiro's life took a positive turn.
With his newfound vision, Byiringiro is now able to read and participate in school. He expressed his joy at being able to experience childhood again and having confidence in his future. Byiringiro's dream is to become an English teacher, and Saka's support has inspired him to work towards achieving his goals. The letter brought attention to the impact of Saka's philanthropic efforts on the lives of children like Byiringiro.
Saka's collaboration with BigShoe began in 2022, when he provided support for the medical treatment of 120 children in Kano, Nigeria. His charitable work has extended to other African countries, including Rwanda, where he and Real Madrid's Antonio Rüdiger contributed to helping children access medical care. Saka's efforts have made a significant difference in the lives of many underprivileged children.
Upon reading Byiringiro's letter, Saka reflected on the importance of childhood experiences and the joy of playing football. He emphasized that his philanthropic work is driven by the desire to help children regain their childhood and pursue their dreams. Saka's commitment to giving back to the community has inspired many, and his work with BigShoe continues to make a positive impact.
The Sócrates Award recognizes individuals who have made significant contributions to social causes. Saka's receipt of the award highlights his dedication to using his platform to make a difference in the lives of others. By sharing Byiringiro's story, Saka aims to raise awareness about the importance of supporting underprivileged children and providing them with access to essential medical care.
The heartwarming exchange between Saka and Byiringiro serves as a testament to the power of kindness and generosity. As Saka continues to use his platform to support charitable causes, his work with BigShoe and other organizations will likely inspire others to follow in his footsteps. Byiringiro's story is a reminder that even small acts of kindness can have a profound impact on the lives of others.
Key points
- Bukayo Saka receives Sócrates Award for philanthropic efforts with BigShoe organization.
- 14-year-old Rwandan boy Byiringiro writes heartfelt letter to Saka expressing gratitude for support.
- Saka's charitable work with BigShoe extends to multiple African countries, including Rwanda and Nigeria.
