Burnley FC fan creates Gambia Clarets football academy
Bakary Demba began supporting Burnley FC in 2006 after picking up a club magazine at Banjul International Airport. His curiosity soon grew into a lasting connection with the club, its history and its community values.
“I kept reading it and became increasingly curious about the history of the club,” he said.
“From that moment, I fell in love with Burnley not only because of football, but because of the club’s rich history, identity, values, and connection with its community.”
That support led Bakary to create the Gambia Clarets Football Academy, aimed at helping young people build discipline, teamwork, and self-belief while steering them away from drugs and other negative influences.
The academy currently has 25 boys and 18 girls taking part.
“It is not just about football,” Bakary said.
“It is about giving young people hope, purpose and an opportunity to believe in themselves.”
He also opens up space at his compound for fellow supporters when Burnley are playing, creating a regular meeting place for Clarets fans in Gambia.
Bakary says football can unite people regardless of nationality, background or skin colour, and believes there is no room for racism at Burnley or in the wider game.
“The Clarets family should be a family of unity, inclusion, and respect,” he said.
“We can support our clubs passionately while still respecting one another.”
He added: “Burnley inspired the name. The Gambia is where the dream lives.
“Up the Clarets. Up the Gambia Clarets.”
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