Wilfried Zaha is a force to be reckoned with on the pitch. Ever since placing his boots on the field at the age of 18, Zaha has been making a name for himself with the Premier League’s Crystal Palace club. During these unfortunate times, not much football is being played, but that hasn’t stopped Zaha from still being a leader off the field. During the fight against COVID-19, Zaha is offering housing to the hardworking men and women in the UK’s National Health Service to help prevent further spread of the disease. We caught up with Wilfried Zaha for our newest StockX series “On The Line With…” to learn more about his philanthropic efforts and see how he’s spending time at home.
Tell us about how you’re supporting those fighting against the COVID-19 crisis.
I’m just trying to do my bit really, we can all see that there is a huge problem right now and if there is anything I can do to help in some way then I will; we have all been affected by this in one way or another. ZO properties had a lot of vacant spaces because of the virus so I’d rather know that they were being put to good use helping our healthcare workers rather than thinking of new ways to make money off them. My business partner, Obi, had a lot to do with executing that plan, actually. Once the statements came out about those helping in the hospitals not being able to go back home because of the fear of passing the virus, this just made perfect sense to us.
How can others get involved to support this cause?
Spreading awareness is massive, that’s probably the biggest thing. It’s not all just about money, but also letting people know that people need help out there. We need to continue doing what we have been told to by staying in and if anyone knows of anyone with more vacant properties or NHS workers that need help. Please don’t wait for someone else to do it; let’s all pull together where we can.
During this time of social distancing, people are leaning on things such as streaming services, puzzles, at-home workouts, to name a few, what activities are you using to take your mind off of things?
I know people are expecting footballers to be doing the most during this time LOL. I’m really just focusing on talking with my loved ones and making sure we all come out of this bizarre time in good health. But yes, every day I train at home to keep my fitness up, but my son, Leo, is a bigger workout than my training schedule LOL. I’ve been doing some cleaning around my house, Slapping a few of my friends up at Call of duty and Fifa. Usual life..
What is keeping you grounded and balanced at the moment?
Knowing that I have to count my blessings, things could be so much worse. Money or not, this is something no one can hide from, we are all under threat.
How have you stayed connected to friends and family during this time?
Social media; WhatsApp; Phone calls. Nothing’s changed in that sense.
How are you staying productive while at home? Any useful tips?
Even though social media is a great thing, it takes time to work on something for yourself. Sometimes a second away from the world isn’t a bad thing. You could gain a new skill, or make sure your loved ones are good. Whatever it is you’re doing right now, aim for doing something that makes you happy. Your mental health and physical health are the most valuable things right now.
What advice would you give to someone who’s struggling in isolation right now?
Talk to someone. Sometimes we keep things to ourselves. It really is a testing time for the world but you can find comfort in those around you and who love you,Share your thoughts and feelings.
What are you most looking forward to once this is over?
The season to continue! Man, I really can’t wait to get back on the pitch, and actually wearing my clothes outside.
