Founded by siblings Peter Deng, Sarah Deng, and Socceroos star Thomas Deng, the Mät Foundation is a powerful new initiative focused on empowering South Sudanese youth and families across Australia.
The foundation, a community-driven and not-for-profit organisation, is dedicated to promoting wellbeing, education, and self-determination through programs that are culturally safe and inclusive.
For Peter Deng, who grew up in refugee camps and later migrated to Australia, football has always been more than just a game, it was a source of strength, hope, and connection. Now living in Melbourne, Peter has brought that same passion to life through Mät, which aims to provide young people with safe spaces, strong role models, and the tools they need to succeed.
“Our goal is to help young people thrive, not only in sport but in life. We want them to feel seen, heard, and proud of who they are,” says Peter.
Using Football as a Tool for Change
Through football, Mät Foundation hopes to:
- Foster inclusion, unity, and cultural pride
- Support mental health, resilience, and leadership
- Create clear pathways from grassroots to professional football
- Use sport as a bridge for education, mentoring, and life skills
Thomas Deng, who proudly represents Australia as a Socceroo, plays a special role on the Foundation’s board. His lived experience as a South Sudanese-Australian footballer is proof of what’s possible when young talent is supported and uplifted.
"Being part of Mat Foundation has been such a blessing. Every step we take brings us closer to empowering and creating lasting change in our community.
"We are keen to work together on the MSP and MYP program that FA currently runs and hope to make an impact in CALD communities together."
Looking to the Future with Football Australia
While the Foundation currently has no formal relationship with Football Australia, it’s clear we share common goals. Peter and the Mät team hope to work closely with FA’s CALD (Culturally and Linguistically Diverse) team in 2025 to help increase grassroots participation, build multicultural pathways, and strengthen representation of African and South Sudanese youth at every level of the game.
“We want young people to be able to go from the local park to the national team, all while staying connected to their culture and identity,” Peter explains.
A Dream of Representation and Opportunity
Mät Foundation’s long-term vision is bold but simple: to break down barriers and make football a place where South Sudanese and African youth feel welcome, celebrated, and supported. Whether it’s creating future leaders, helping kids stay in school, or opening doors to employment, football is the vehicle for change.
To learn more or support their work, visit: www.matfoundation.org.au.
