Since 2006, Ashok Rathod has been involved in building and leading sports for development (S4D) initiatives that develop and provide quality football training with life skills to address the lack of access to sport for children, adolescents and youth in underserved communities. Belonging to Mumbai's Ambedkar Nagar slum, Ashok witnessed children around him leaving education to earn money, falling prey to drugs and illegal activities. Personally, he discouraged many from taking this route, but realised that this challenge was more complex requiring a unique approach. Ashok’s belief in the power of education motivated him to start OSCAR Foundation despite his little means. OSCAR began with a few children and one simple rule; No school on weekdays- No football sessions on weekends. His lived experiences in Ambedkar Nagar helped shape the community model for OSCAR Foundation. His unique approach has attracted interest from various S4D organisations including FIFA Foundation, Common Goal and Manchester City FC. A recipient of many prestigious awards such as the CNN-IBN Real Hero Award and the Apollo Tyres Go the Distance Hero Award, Ashok is also an Ashoka Youth Venture Fellow (2008), Acumen Fellow (2021) and has spoken at many international and national leadership forums on the cause of education.