Founders's Story

Omar Mohamed and Abdi Mohamed are the founders of 1826 Academy, a non-profit organization dedicated to providing inner city and immigrant youth communities with access to quality soccer training, academic assistance, and mentorship programs.

Growing up, Omar and Abdi were passionate about soccer and played the game whenever they could and dreamed that they could be professional soccer players against all the odds. They knew the importance of dedication and commitment, having been raised in a household where their parents instilled in them the value of hard work, self-belief, and giving back to communities.

Omar realized his lifelong dream when he signed to FC Cincinnati in 2016, and the opportunity to play in his home state of Ohio. While Abdi, after excelling with the University of Akron, was selected by NYCFC with the 43rd overall pick in the SuperDraft and led them to the College Cup Final. They attribute all their success on Family who supported them at every chance, friends who cheered and invested in their dreams, a community who opened its doors to them, and coaches who believed in their deep desire to play at the highest level.

Despite their individual successes, Omar and Abdi saw the challenges faced by many young people in their communities. They knew firsthand how soccer and education could transform lives, and they wanted to create opportunities for others to succeed. In 2020, they founded 1826 Academy, a non-profit organization dedicated to providing inner city and immigrant youth communities with access to quality soccer training, academic assistance, and mentorship programs.

1826 Academy offers soccer training programs that go beyond just developing the game. Their training programs instill life skills such as teamwork, leadership, and perseverance, which are transferable to everyday life. Additionally, the academy provides academic assistance and mentorship to help their students thrive in school and in their future careers beyond the game.

Despite their busy schedules, Omar and Abdi remain committed to the success of 1826 Academy, and are actively involved in the academy's programs. Their dedication to giving back to their communities and transforming young lives through soccer and education is a true inspiration to all.