Asian Inclusion

The PFA's Asian Inclusion Mentoring Scheme (AIMS) is a structured network of support focused on enhancing the experience of Asian footballers at all levels of the professional game.

The scheme involves PFA-facilitated meetings and workshops where scholars, academy players and their parents/guardians can connect with senior Asian players. Mentees have the opportunity to:

• learn about professional experiences
• ask for advice
• engage directly with the mentors for informal one-on-one support

Mentors include current players Danny Batth, Malvind Benning, Neil Taylor and Zesh Rehman as well as former players Otis Khan and Anwar Uddin.

AIMS forms part of a more comprehensive, five-year PFA strategy to increase Asian representation within the game. The long-term plan includes:

• engaging player-care staff at football academies to refer young Asian players to the scheme
• educating club staff around important cultural considerations
• adding Asian coaches to the scheme and encouraging more players to pursue their coaching qualifications
• supporting Asian players in the Women's Super League
• celebrating the achievements of Asian players across football
• identifying and supporting club community organisations that are working to increase Asian participation and inclusion
• working with other stakeholders in the game to have a more collaborative approach and embed Asian inclusion across the game

AIMS is open to all football players on a professional playing career path who feel they could benefit from additional support. We also encourage current and former players to join our network as mentors and share their valuable insights to help guide young players on their football journey.