Faith, Football & the 1% Mentality: My Journey of Resilience

What does it take to chase a dream when the world says no?

In Faith, Football & the 1% Mentality, I, Afolabi Soyemi-Ololade, share the raw, honest journey of a footballer who refused to quit. From academy rejections to battling setbacks, losing 35 pounds, and pushing through two challenging seasons as a free agent — this is a story of grit, growth, and unwavering faith.

Follow my personal journey:

• Leaving home at 17 to play men’s football
• Representing Essex and winning a national title with the English Schools FA
• Crossing the Atlantic to study and play in the U.S.
• Discovering Islam and inner strength during the COVID-19 lockdown
• Climbing the non-league ladder in England from Step 5 to Step 2
• Signing his first full-time deal in Italy’s Serie D — and bouncing back from limited playtime
• Staying motivated through tough times with discipline, Qadr (divine destiny), and belief

This isn’t just about football. It’s about purpose, resilience, and staying ready for the breakthrough — even when it feels out of reach.

If you’re an athlete, dream-chaser, or someone who’s ever felt stuck… this story is for you.