The founder of the East Legon Football Academy (ELFA), Mr. Winston Yeboah Danso, has etched his name in the annals of global recognition as the first Ghanaian to win a prestigious Stevie Award at the 2025 International Business Awards (IBAs).

He was honored with the Bronze Stevie for Thought Leader of the Year – Government or Non-Profit, a category that celebrates influential figures driving mission-led work and societal change.

The Stevie Awards are widely recognized as the world’s premier business awards, with the 2025 edition receiving over 3,800 nominations from organizations and individuals across 78 countries.

Winners were selected through a rigorous judging process involving more than 250 global executives who reviewed entries from May through July.

A check of the official Stevie Awards database confirmed that no Ghanaian had previously won in any category, making Mr. Danso’s recognition a groundbreaking achievement.
In his remarks following the award, Mr. Yeboah Danso said, “This award is not just for me, but for every young Ghanaian who dares to dream."

" I dedicate it to all who have supported and believed in my vision, my coaching staff, and the players of ELFA.”

Since establishing ELFA in 2019, Mr. Danso has led the academy with a mission to use football as a vehicle for social impact.

Under his leadership, the academy has made three appearances at the prestigious Dana Cup in Denmark, winning two trophies.

But beyond international competition, ELFA stands out for its commitment to supporting underprivileged youth, providing financial assistance, mentorship, and personal development opportunities to players from diverse backgrounds.

“Through football and business, I want to transform lives. When I see a talented young person struggling, I feel compelled to step in and make a difference,” Danso shared.

As a serial entrepreneur, Mr. Danso continues to position ELFA as more than just a sports academy.

He envisions it as a development hub for Ghanaian youth—where talent meets opportunity, and dreams are nurtured regardless of circumstance.

His work is not only elevating the standard of youth football in Ghana but also redefining how sport can contribute to sustainable social transformation.

He expressed deep appreciation to the Stevie Awards organizers for acknowledging the impact of his work, reaffirming his commitment to raising Ghana’s flag high on the international stage.

Winners of the 2025 International Business Awards will be honored at a gala ceremony at the Corinthia Hotel in Lisbon, Portugal, on Friday, 10 October, where Mr. Danso will join global leaders and innovators recognized for their outstanding achievements.