We were inspired to do this project when we heard the story of Mr Akay and his one of a kind boxing gym.

He founded All Stars Boxing Gym in London’s Paddington basin in 1974. Mr Akay’s remarkable journey has taken him from boxing champion in Ghana, West Africa, to being awarded an MBE for service to the community. 

Developed for those who were excluded from other gyms because of race, the club has produced several local and national champions. Setup as a charity, it has helped many disadvantage kids develop the skills needed to compete both in and out of the ring.

The images that follow show the passion of the All Stars young members and the pride of its coaches.