Running Towards a Brighter Future: Akintunde Mubarak’s Journey

A 400m runner with a 47.73s personal best, Mubarak receives ₦400,000 to support his training and competition.

At 18, Nigerian 400m athlete Akintunde Mubarak is pursuing his athletic dreams despite experiencing significant personal and financial challenges. Having lost both parents at a young age, Mubarak has faced obstacles that extend beyond the track. Yet, through resilience, discipline, and a determination to build a better future, he continues to work towards his goals.

Finding Purpose Through Athletics

Mubarak’s athletics journey began at Shagamu International Stadium in Shagamu, Ogun State, where he joined Coach Ahmed Akinlawon’s training group three years ago. What initially began as a way to clear his mind soon became an opportunity to discover his potential in the 400m.

Since then, he has committed himself to training five to six days a week, often attending morning and evening sessions despite limited access to quality training facilities. His dedication has helped him achieve a personal best of 47.73 seconds in the 400m.

His ambition is to break into the 45-second range, compete at the national level, and continue improving as an athlete.

The Challenges Behind the Progress

Despite his progress, Mubarak continues to face financial barriers that affect his training and competition opportunities.

Following the loss of his parents, financial difficulties also interrupted his education after secondary school. Although his uncle tried to support him, the cost of school fees and daily necessities made it difficult to continue. He currently lives with his coach, Ahmed Akinlawon, while focusing on athletics and hopes to return to his education when circumstances allow.

On the track, his needs include proper nutrition to support the demands of 400m training, access to physiotherapy and recovery services, suitable competition spikes, and transportation to competitions outside Ogun State.

These challenges make consistent development difficult, even as he remains committed to his ambitions.

Support Through the Athlete Impact Fund

Through the Athlete Impact Fund, Paragon Sports Development Foundation is awarding Akintunde Mubarak ₦400,000 to support his continued athletic development.

This support is intended to help address some of the financial barriers he faces as he works towards his goals. Access to essential resources can make a meaningful difference in an athlete’s ability to train consistently, prepare for competition, and pursue better opportunities.

For Mubarak, this award represents support for a journey shaped by perseverance and hope.

Looking Ahead

Mubarak dreams of running in the 45-second range, competing at the national level, and making his late parents proud. He also hopes his journey will inspire other young people who have experienced the loss of their parents or similar hardships to continue believing in their potential.

His story is a reminder that talent exists in many circumstances, but access to opportunity is not always equal.

At Paragon Sports Development Foundation, we believe financial barriers should not prevent promising athletes from pursuing their potential. Through the Athlete Impact Fund, we remain committed to helping young athletes access the support they need to develop, compete, and move closer to their dreams.

Every athlete deserves an opportunity to grow. With the right support, determination can become progress, and progress can open doors to new possibilities.