Maro Itoje and World Vision UK

Maro Itoje's support

England rugby star Maro Itoje has proudly launched the Pearl Fund, which will work in partnership with World Vision UK.

Signing his first contract with Saracens in 2012 and making his professional debut a year later, Itoje is seen as one of the best rugby players in the world, playing at lock or blindside flanker for Saracens and the England National team.

Born to Nigerian parents who moved to the UK, the importance of education has long been instilled in Maro as a means to fulfil one’s full potential.

Maro Itoje smiles at the camera whilst kids walk around him in rugby gear — Maro Itoje visits Ghana

Young student looks and smiles at camera — Maro Itoje visits Ghana

Young female student smiles and claps her hands — Maro Itoje visits Ghana

Maro Itoje and Education

Maro has tirelessly advocated for educational improvements in the UK and now looks to support children’s education on the African continent working with World Vision UK in Ghana.

Maro is confident in the belief that education is a right for every child, no matter where they live.

Maro has seen the difference education makes.

The Pearl Fund is looking to have a real impact…this means children can fulfil their true potential and never limit their ambitions.

The Pearl Fund

A classroom full of students wave at the camera with smiles on their faces

244 million children between the ages of 6 and 18 are out of school across the African continent.

However, through transformative education programmes, including reading clubs, teacher training and age-appropriate learning resources, World Vision UK are helping the next generation to succeed in Ghana.

“Long-term development is something World Vision UK are experts in, so I’m excited for the Pearl Fund to benefit from World Vision’s 70 years of experience working with vulnerable children and their communities to create lasting change.”

– Maro Itoje

Find out more about the Pearl Fund