During the World Cup in South Africa last year, Alive & Kicking came across some incredible images of African football taken by Jessica Hiltout, which are brought together in a book called ‘AMEN‘.

The book captures the essence of football in Africa to such a degree that we now give a copy to some of our core supporters. Having met with Jessica she has kindly agreed to allow Alive & Kicking to use some of her images in a drive to sell African balls in the UK.

Jessica had this to say about the ‘AMEN’ project and what it means to her:

“The aim of AMEN was to shine the light on all those in the shadow of the World Cup, far from the big stadiums and the corporate carnival-nature of the event.

To embrace Africa and everything that makes it unique.

To speak of the authenticity and sheer ingeniousness of a continent that manages to do so much with so little.

To capture people with simple needs and huge hearts.

To express football in its purest form.

I was never much of a football fan, but I’ve always loved Africa.

Eight months were spent on the road in 10 African countries with my Hasselblad, 80mm lens, digital camera, printer, log book and a stock of deflated footballs.

I was in regular contact with my father in South Africa and Ian in Dublin. They encouraged me along the way.

I just followed my gut and felt my way through villages in search of all those little details that speak of Africa’s great football passion.

For me all the big stories are in the small details.

People were incredibly helpful and once I had gained their trust they gave me more than I could ever have imagined.

When I got home my head and heart were full of life lessons and beautiful memories. This project was living inside me.

On the last page of the AMEN book I wrote a PROMISE.

It was essentially a promise I made to myself after being deeply touched by the people whose faces adorn the pages of my book.

I believed if my message was heard that I could received sponsorship in terms of equipment to give back to all those who trusted me.

The dream came true.

The World Cup may be over but the project is still very alive.”

You can VIEW THE AMEN BOOK ONLINE and PURCHASE A COPY OF THE BOOK