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Live Learn Inspire Podcast

From War Survivor to Pro Fotoballer

Season 2, Ep. 5
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In this episode of Live Learn Inspire Podcast, host Albert Emmanuel and co-host Serge Balole sit down with former professional footballer Mushaga Bakenga for one of the most inspiring conversations we’ve ever had so far.


Born in Norway to Congolese parents, Mushaga shares:

  • Fleeing war in Congo as a child
  • Becoming a top football talent at Rosenborg
  • Training with Chelsea at 14 years old
  • Being betrayed by his agent (€1M contract scandal)
  • Experiencing racism in Norwegian football
  • Belgium, Germany & mental challenges in pro sports
  • Why Japan changed his life
  • Turning down 7x more money in Saudi to follow purpose
  • The truth about football life in India
  • Writing his biography “Drømmen og Skyggen”
  • Transitioning into media & TV after retiring at 32
  • Building schools in Congo & launching the “Be Kind” anti-racism initiative


This episode goes beyond football.

It’s about:

Discipline, Identity, Integrity, Business mistakes, Athlete mental health Leadership, Culture and choosing purpose over money.


Key Lesson:

Struggle is not a weakness, it’s preparation.

If you're an athlete, entrepreneur, or someone chasing big dreams, this conversation is for you.


#MushagaBakenga #FootballPodcast #AthleteMindset #RacismInFootball #Entrepreneurship #LiveLearnInspire #SportsBusiness #AfricanAthletes #Leadership #Motivation

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