Paul Pogba's Inspiring Mission: Spearheading a New Fund to Tackle Poverty

Paul Pogba, the ex-Manchester United player, aims to address the cost of living crisis in the UK through a new ethical fund he plans to launch. During an exclusive interview with Sky News, the renowned Juventus and France midfielder shared personal memories of queuing with his mother at food banks during his childhood.

"I have fond memories of visiting that place when I was around four or five years old," reminisced the 30-year-old.

"They provided assistance with provisions like milk, sugar, and other essentials. My mother would wait in line there as she was a divorced mother of three."

He explained, "I didn't simply attain my current position and wealth effortlessly. I faced challenges and setbacks that ultimately pushed me to better myself and develop. As a result, I now understand the significance of money and the importance of experiencing the hardships of life. I witnessed my mother's determination in overcoming those obstacles." Pogba joined Manchester United in 2016, returning to the club in his second stint, in exchange for a record-breaking fee of £89.3 million.

Living in Manchester, he couldn't avoid witnessing poverty. He commended his ex-teammate Marcus Rashford for his efforts in ensuring that children receiving free school meals had access to holiday food vouchers. As a Muslim, Pogba emphasized that charity holds great significance in his faith, and believes that prominent athletes have a social responsibility to assist communities.

"I want to help because it can be huge for some people," he said. "It's nothing for us but it can be huge for them."

Pogba's fund is based on Islamic principles known as waqf (Arabic for endowment).

The new initiative, led by Wahed, a digital investment platform, in partnership with a charity registered in the UK, strives to establish a self-sufficient approach to philanthropy.

According to Umer Suleman, Compliance Director at Wahed, the concept involves contributing funds that are invested, and the resulting income is utilized for charitable purposes.

The partnership will prioritize education, poverty alleviation, and sustainable development, guided by the principles of Islamic finance and social responsibility. Although the fund has been introduced in the UK, Pogba intends to expand its reach globally.

"You've got to begin somewhere," he stated. "Commencing with just one individual, followed by two, then three, the impact will expand steadily.

"Our aim is to assist to the best of our abilities, with the hope that by reaching out to every individual, we can ultimately eradicate poverty."