Amal launched MAP in June 2020 with a dedicated group of 50 high-achieving athletes from across the country. These athletes represent a diverse range of sports and backgrounds, all seeking community and professional support during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Within just six months, all 50 fellows from the inaugural cohort secured either internships or full-time positions with leading companies. Notably, several successful individuals from this group are now helping to drive the growth of MAP as members of our esteemed Board of Directors.
The significant growth of our program, from 50 athletes in Y1 to 500 athletes in Y3, was largely due to the influence of a trio of Stanford Women's soccer players. Kennedy Wesley, Madison Haley, and Naomi Girma, who all went on to pursue professional soccer careers, not only spearheaded this expansion but also propelled MAP to new heights.
Their efforts helped the organization establish a national reputation as the home to the best scholar athletes in the country, a remarkable achievement we can all take pride in. Their individual successes, particularly Naomi Girma's #1 overall selection in the 2022 NWSL Draft, laid the foundation for an influx of new talent from all corners of the country.
In 2024, MAP's influence reached new heights as 7 of our alumni showcased their talents at the Summer Olympics in Paris. Notably, Ariana Ramsey (JP Morgan), Dubem Amene (Morgan Stanley), and Lauren Scruggs (Bank of America) not only represented their respective countries but also secured offers from leading companies.
Their collective success, including four medals and two golds, sent a powerful message to athletes worldwide that you can excel in both sports and career, inspiring a global community to 'fall forward.'