- Patoranking wants to help one million young people by 2035
- He’s building sports centers in poor areas
- He works as a UN ambassador for youth innovation
Nigerian Afro-dancehall star Patoranking, born Patrick Nnaemeka Okorie, is on a mission to transform the lives of one million young people by 2035. Rising from the slums of Lagos, Patoranking’s success in blending reggae, dancehall, and Afrobeats has made him a global sensation. However, he’s committed to making a difference beyond his music career.
Patoranking shared that his upbringing in a tough environment inspired him to give back to others. “Coming from a place where chances were slim, I knew I had to step up for my community,” he said. Early on, he was drawn to music, using it to express the struggles of his people. His breakthrough came in 2013 when Timaya helped him launch his career with the hit song “Alubarika.”
By 2018, Patoranking founded the Patoranking Foundation, which aims to uplift young people through education, sports, and community development. He has already begun building sports facilities in underdeveloped areas, starting with his hometown of Ebute Metta. His goal is to build 100 such centers across Africa in the next five years.
In addition to his focus on sports, Patoranking is passionate about technology and education. His Sky Level Initiative, launched in 2020, offers scholarships for tech training and has already helped 50 young scholars. Through his foundation and partnerships with organizations like the African Leadership University (ALU), Patoranking is investing in the future of Africa’s youth.
As a UN Development Programme Goodwill Ambassador for Africa, Patoranking continues to advocate for youth innovation and development, inspiring the next generation to believe that anything is possible.
