In the heart of St. James Town – one of Toronto’s most diverse and densely populated neighbourhoods - one grassroots organization is creating powerful change - one player, one practice, one goal at a time. 

TKOP Academy, short for Taking Kids Out of Poverty, is more than a soccer club. It's a community hub, a safe space, and a stepping stone for youth facing systemic barriers. Founded by community leader Mikael “Mickey” Khalam, TKOP Academy is a free soccer and mentorship program that helps young people access the game, develop life skills, and become role models in their community. 

“Our goal is to empower underprivileged children and youth through free and accessible soccer, education, and mentorship,” says Mickey. “We want to help them become future leaders and changemakers in their own communities.” 

Soccer as the Starting Point 

While TKOP Academy centers its programming around soccer, the impact reaches far beyond the pitch. For many participants, it’s the entry point into something greater—confidence, structure, and connection. 

As Mickey puts it: 

“We use soccer as the entry point. But what we’re building is confidence, leadership, and a sense of belonging.” 

This approach is evident across TKOP’s programs, which include: 

• School and university partnerships that encourage academic goals 
• Certification support for coaching and officiating employment and volunteer placements for youth 
• Recreational and competitive soccer for boys and girls 
• Girls-only development programs and mentorship sessions

TKOP’s work is deeply embedded in the community, providing free access to sport and life-enriching opportunities for families who otherwise might not be able to afford them.  

A Full-Circle Story: From Participant to Coach 

One of the most powerful testaments to TKOP’s impact comes from Cristine Walters, whose daughter Nichieria went from participant to coach. 

“I am excited to recognize TKOP for their leadership in facilitating initiatives that promote diversity and inclusion. As well as creativity for youths in the community, while offering a safe space for active play and involvement,” Cristine writes. 

“My daughter Nichieria has been an active part of the organization, which helped her develop love for soccer and become a brilliant mentor to the youths in the community. TKOP provided a pathway to success for Nichieria, which has led her to obtaining her coaching license, and her role as a head coach to the girls’ competitive team 8 to 14 years of age.” 

“TKOP is a valuable resource to the community through their initiative to foster youth development by way of recreation, wellbeing, prevention, intervention, and leadership. Keep up the great work TKOP!” 

Stories like Nichieria’s are at the heart of what TKOP aims to achieve—creating real, lasting change by nurturing leadership within the very communities it serves. 

From the Community, For the Community 

Mickey’s deep roots in St. James Town and surrounding neighborhoods shape the culture of TKOP. The program isn’t an outside intervention—it’s a homegrown movement led by someone who understands the barriers local youth face, and who is committed to creating better outcomes. 

“Soccer gave me hope growing up,” Mickey shares. “It taught me about discipline, teamwork, and resilience. I wanted to build something that could do the same for the next generation.” 

The model works because it is consistent, authentic, and focused not only on keeping kids busy—but on helping them believe in their own potential. 

“We’re trying to break cycles, not just through sport, but through consistent support, opportunities, and belief in these young people.” 

A Vision for the Future 

With programs continuing to grow and demand rising, TKOP is looking toward the future with an eye on expansion, sustainability, and continued impact. 

Whether through new coaching certifications, added tournament play, or leadership development workshops, Mickey and the team remain focused on the same mission that launched the organization in the first place: creating opportunities for youth who are often overlooked. 

“We want to help them become future leaders and changemakers in their own communities.” 

And judging by the testimonials, that mission is well underway.