A charity is hosting an exclusive night to get you in the mood for the exciting final of the African Cup of Nations.

Africa on the Ball emerged initially as a tiny project within the University of Stirling just four years ago. Today, the charity uses football to create social change in the Kalingalinga community of Lusaka, Zambia.

Young people there are invited to engage not only with sport, but also education and health in a fantastic project that strives to empower, inspire and support African communities.

With a sensational year planned ahead, the first event is a Speakers’ Night – being held at the Stirling Highland Hotel on Saturday 7 February.

Alban Dickson, one of the charity’s four trustees, said: “This night will be a fantastic, inspirational experience for all those who attend.

“Our entertaining speakers on the night will be sharing some fascinating stories. We are also proud to offer a bespoke Scottish/African menu as we celebrate the power of sport at this event.

“One of our speakers is former professional footballer, and son of the rock, Jimmy Bone. Following a playing career including Hearts, St Mirren and Celtic, Jimmy managed Zambia’s Power Dynamos during an especially challenging time for football in Zambia.

“In 1993, a flight carrying the majority of the Zambian national team crashed, losing all 25 passengers and five crew members. Despite this appalling tragedy, the sport continues to flourish and in turn breeding inspiration throughout the country, highlighting the resilience within the communities with which we aim to work in.

“This year’s African Cup of Nations hasn’t been without its own challenges either, to this end, our founders will be sharing with you their own personal experiences of how our great sport can be used to vastly improve the lives of individuals and communities throughout the continent.” Tickets are priced at just £30, which includes a three-course meal and sparkling wine reception. For more information and to buy tickets, visit www.africaontheball.org.