A Small Dream, a Big Hope: 17-year-old Tayo and Stateless Children

Aimie Henry Tan, Senior Project Officer CORM

Tayo, 17, is a trainee teacher at ALC Kinarut (Alternative Learning Centre Kinarut) and a passionate football mentor who inspires children through sport and learning. Once a stateless child chasing a dream with a makeshift ball, following his participation in the 2024 teacher training organized by Calls Over Ridges Malaysia (CORM), nowadays he guides students, runs extra-curricular activities and shows that determination, care and hope can transform lives and communities.

Every afternoon at ALC Kinarut, the school field comes alive with laughter, shouting and the thump of football hitting the ground. Leading the excitement is Tayo, a 17-year-old who has become more than just a student. He is a mentor, a guide and a source of inspiration for the children in his community.

Chasing Dreams Against All Odds

Since he was 13, Tayo has been chasing a dream that many children take for granted: to play football. But his journey was not easy. He had no proper field, no sports shoes and no real ball. To practice, he crumpled plastics into a makeshift ball, running under the hot sun across uneven ground just to feel the joy of the game.

Being stateless added even more barriers. Tayo faced limits that others rarely encounter. He could not join official football teams or competitions because he lacked legal documents. He even attended the Sabah state-level football talent search for the under 18 squad, but could not be recruited due to his legal status. Despite these obstacles, Tayo’s determination never wavered.

“Even when I couldn’t play in official teams, I kept training. I wanted to keep going, for myself and for the children who might come after me,” he shared.

A Small Act That Changed Everything

Teacher Ann noticed Tayo’s love for football and his perseverance. She bought him a real football, ensured he had sports shoes which could protect his feet, and encouraged him to practice on the field. This small act changed everything for Tayo. It gave him a sense of possibility and recognition, showing him that someone believed in his dreams.

Over the years, Tayo’s love for the game grew into something bigger. After graduating from ALC Kinarut, he returned not just as a former student, but as a trainee teacher. Today, he helps Teacher Ann and other community teachers while running football as an extra activity for the children.

“I want the children here to dream bigger. Even if they can’t become professional players, they can still enjoy football, learn and grow,” Tayo said, guiding a group of younger students through passing drills.

Mentoring the Next Generation

Tayo’s journey has inspired many children at ALC Kinarut. Under his guidance, students who once had no outlet now run across the field with confidence. They learn teamwork, discipline and perseverance not just from lessons, but through playing and training together. Tayo makes time to teach them skills, encourage them when they fall and celebrate their small victories.

Some days as I came to ALC Kinarut for the Nutrition Program weekly monitoring, I watched him patiently correcting a child’s footwork or showing them how to pass the ball properly. Other times, he encouraged them to practice after school, leading by example as he continued to train himself. His presence has created a safe and inspiring space where children can dream, explore and believe in their potential.

Turning Dreams into Hope

Although Tayo’s dream of becoming a professional footballer has not come true, he has quietly transformed that dream into hope for others. He has created a legacy at ALC Kinarut, where his dedication to football has given children a chance to learn, play and imagine possibilities they once thought were out of reach.

Beyond football, Tayo has shown a deep commitment to giving back. He assists teachers in classrooms, supports other activities and mentors students with patience and care. The children respect him not only for his skill in football but also for his kindness and leadership.

A Story of Courage and Inspiration

Tayo’s story reminds us that dreams can change, but hope, courage and dedication can create real impact. His journey shows how one small act of support, like what Teacher Ann did by buying a football, offering guidance and believing in a child can ignite a spark that transforms lives.

At Calls Over Ridges Malaysia, Tayo’s journey reflects the values we hold dear: growth, responsibility, openness and commitment to lasting change. His determination to rise above obstacles, his willingness to give back to his community and the transformation we see in the children he mentors are examples of the sustainable impact education and guidance can achieve.

For the children of ALC Kinarut, Tayo is not just a mentor or trainee teacher. He is proof that even small dreams can grow into hope that inspires an entire community. Through his story, we see how courage, persistence and care for others can light the way, one child, one game, one lesson at a time.

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