RB Leipzig midfielder Christoph Baumgartner has won hearts both on and off the pitch and now a European Fair Play Diploma, for his life-changing charitable work in Uganda’s rural community of Kakule.
Since 2022, the Austrian international has funded and supported the Baumi Junior School and Vocational Centre, giving young women and children a second chance at education and stability.
The centre provides vocational training for young mothers, while their children, aged four to nine, attend school next door.
“Many women in Uganda face tough choices,” Baumgartner said. “Some drop out of school due to early pregnancies and lack of support. I wanted to give them a real opportunity to study and build a future for their children.”
What started as a small idea has grown into a thriving community initiative. Beyond education, Baumgartner launched a project to repair 12 water wells, restoring clean water access to more than 35,000 people in Kakule and nearby villages.
His efforts have drawn praise from teammates and fans alike. Fellow midfielder Amadou Haidara said, “Baumi, what you’re doing is incredible. You don’t have to do this, but you’re helping people in Africa. That means a lot.”
Despite the recognition, Baumgartner remains humble. “This isn’t about publicity,” he said. “It’s about making a real difference. Our next goal is to build a permanent school and renovate more wells. Every donation helps.”
Through his compassion and commitment, Baumgartner is proving that footballers can change lives far beyond the game.
