Wycombe Abbey Pupil Launches ‘Pair It Forward’ to Empower Young Tennis Players in Africa.
10 November 2025 - All
Over the past two weeks, LVI pupil Tahlia has been on an extraordinary journey, one that combined competitive sport with a powerful act of kindness. While away from school, Tahlia competed in two ITF tournaments, first in Nairobi, Kenya, and then in Lagos, Nigeria. She reached Round two in singles and doubles in Kenya, and in Lagos advanced to the singles second round and doubles quarterfinals.
But what truly defined this trip was something far bigger than tennis.
The Birth of ‘Pair It Forward’
Earlier this year, during a summer tournament in Kenya, Tahlia noticed a striking reality: many local players were competing in worn-out or borrowed trainers, despite their incredible talent and passion. Determined to make a difference, she launched Pair It Forward, a simple yet powerful initiative:
‘If I can help just one young player feel confident and equipped on court, that’s a start – and if others join in, we can reach many more.’
Over three months, Tahlia raised £1,440 (surpassing her £1,000 goal), purchased new trainers, collected donations, created branded packaging and prepared to deliver them herself during her recent trip.
Kenya: First Shoe Drop (32 Pairs Delivered)
While competing in Nairobi for the ITF J30, Tahlia partnered with the Tennis Kenya Federation to distribute 32 pairs of trainers to junior players. She met with:
- The Secretary General of Tennis Kenya
- Head coaches and administrators
- Several junior players, including Kenya’s No.1 Under-16 girl (currently in care) and Kenya’s No.1 Under-18 boy
Nigeria: Second Shoe Drop (40 Pairs Delivered)
In Lagos, the impact of Pair It Forward grew even bigger. Tahlia handed out 40 pairs of trainers to young players, many of whom were competing in severely worn shoes. The initiative captured national attention:
- Featured on National Nigerian Television and Lagos State TV
- Covered by two national newspapers and online publications
- Praised by officials from the Nigeria Tennis Federation and the Parents’ Tennis Association
A Journey Beyond Tennis
Tahlia returned home inspired and determined to continue her mission. She has already promised to send additional shoes to players she couldn’t reach and hopes to expand Pair It Forward further.
Her parents note, ‘To see her interact so selflessly with children her own age, to observe her confidence in front of national media, and to witness the genuine impact she made, has been deeply moving for us as her parents.’
Her story reflects empathy, leadership, and global awareness which are values we deeply cherish. Huge congratulations to Tahlia for turning a simple idea into a movement that is changing lives.
Huge well done to Tahlia for this incredible achievement. Everyone at Wycombe Abbey is extremely proud of you!
Read more about Tahlia’s story in Sports247 and Premium Times:
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