Everyone knows that Roger Federer is a phenomenal tennis player, rising to the upper echelons of his chosen sport, but less is known of his extraordinary philanthropy. The tennis champ has spent $13 million in Africa alone during the past decade.
The 34-year-old recently celebrated the 10th anniversary of the Roger Federer Foundation by visiting the preschools he has created across southern Africa. He was greeted with many hugs and excited screams from the children that have been touched by his Foundation.
Six countries play host to the preschools, which have bettered the lives of more than 285,000 children, with over 50 early childhood centres set up in Malawi alone. His goal is to go way beyond this number though, aiming to touch the lives of over one million children, through a programme that involves local teachers and NGOs.
The children were happy to see the Swiss athlete at their schools that provide them with a daily nutritious meal and the opportunity to learn. Federer pulled up his sleeves, helping to cook and serve lunch, playing with the children in the playground and also sat in on their classes.
“I’m so happy and emotional that I can see a preschool of this quality here–it’s quite extraordinary. The community is so committed to helping the kids,” said Federer, ” it’s so important as the foundation for learning.”
