In a conversation with BM, Joel opens up about the influence of sports on every aspect of our culture. From his childhood days of wearing jerseys to his modern-day beard care routine and signature happy socks, Joel's love for sports is woven into every part of his life. Whether it’s his musical preferences, his devotion to Arsenal and their trendsetting African players, or his growing interest in golf as a sport that makes a style statement, Joel’s passion radiates. He also highlights the importance of maintaining a solid skincare routine.

In this exclusive, Joel brings his unique perspective on how various sports shape not just his life, but also the cultural fabric around us.

Let’s kick things off…literally! What was it about sports that first captured your heart? 

Growing up playing football with makeshift balls made of sisal and polythene bags with the neighborhood kids brought out the competitiveness in me at a very early age. Back in the day, we had idols and personalities we looked up to, and I eventually got hooked on sports after watching shows like Football Made in Germany. That naturally led me to fall in love with the English Premier League, especially because of the African footballers who featured there.

There were also other athletes who played a significant role. Roger Milla, George Weah, Haile Gabrselassie, Eliud Kipchoge, Kipchoge Keino, and others brought flair, talent, and a deep connection to sports. Their style, whether it was their hair or their dress code also left a huge impression on me. I admired the way they carried themselves both on and off the field, and it influenced my love for wanting to be like them in terms of personal style.

Arsenal is your favorite team, and over the years, they’ve had some of the most stylish players on and off the field. How do you think the African players on the team blend sports and fashion?

Tell you what, Arsenal’s African players have always had a strong presence, not just on the pitch but also with their sense of style. Players like Kanu, Adebayor, and Gervinho brought a certain flair both in their gameplay and in how they carried themselves off the field. Their style wasn’t just about designer outfits; it was an extension of their confidence and how they approached the game. They represented the blending of African pride with modern fashion, making sports more than just a physical endeavor but also an expression of identity.

Happy socks and beards! You’ve got a signature look going. How would you describe your personal style?

My personal style is all about being unapologetically me. I fell in love with happy socks a few years ago, and now I buy them in dozens. Each new collection I get has to be more vibrant than the last. I wear them with anything, because why not? They turn an everyday essential into something joyful and stylish. And the beard? Well, it just adds that extra bit of personality to my look. Plus, my wife would kill me if I shaved it off!

You’ve mentioned growing up with sports playing a big role in your life. How did those early years shape not only your love for the game but also your style and grooming habits?

Where do I start! Sports were the heartbeat of our household. From football to basketball, golf, and rugby, my brothers and I were surrounded by it all. Back in the day, athletes like Michael Jordan, Dennis Rodman, and Tiger Woods were style icons, and I tried (often unsuccessfully) to dress like them. But even though I couldn’t pull it off as a kid, those early attempts fueled my love for blending athletic inspiration with fashion. As I grew older, that mix of sports and style became my own unique approach to fashion and grooming.

We know you’re into golf, a sport with a serious style statement. What is it about golf that intrigues you, and how does it differ in style and culture from other sports?

Golf is like the epitome of elegance in sports. People often call it boring, but once you understand the game, you begin to appreciate not only the skill but also the discipline it requires. And let’s not forget about the outfits! The polos, the designer pants, the shoes—it’s all so put together. Golf is more than a game; it’s a lifestyle statement.

Sports personalities are known for their post-game looks just as much as their performance on the pitch. How important do you think grooming and style are to an athlete’s overall brand?

First impressions matter. Your appearance can speak volumes before you even say a word. Grooming and style are a huge part of an athlete’s brand. It’s not just about looking good; it’s about presenting yourself in a way that shows confidence, professionalism, and credibility. It’s the whole package.

You’ve got quite the taste in music, Afrobeats, South African sounds, East African… What’s the influence of music in your life, and what are you listening to at the moment?

I can’t function without music. It’s like my therapist, hype man, and confidant all rolled into one. It just lifts my mood and gives me the energy for anything I do. Right now, I’m listening to a lot of Nyashinski (Kenya), Daniel Caesar, and Mthunzi (South Africa). But honestly, give me old-school R&B any day. 

Oh, and let me let you in on a little secret, I may or may not have been a background vocalist for one of the renown artists in East Africa!

There’s homework for you. (laughs)

Skincare and sports, two things people don’t always pair together. But we know a good skin routine is key! What’s your secret to looking fresh, whether out and about or behind the mic?

Skincare routine? I shower and wipe myself down! (laughs) I used to think that was enough, but these days I’ve learned to make sure I’m well moisturized. There are some great products out there for men, and I think it’s about finding what works for you. Moisturizing is my go-to, but for those who want more, you’ll find plenty of options out there, like right here on Beauty Marché!

We’ve also heard you enjoy a good glass of wine on a good day. Any pointers on your go-to choice?

 Absolutely! I do love my wine. For me, it’s all about balance and the occasion. I enjoy a good red, something rich and bold, a Pinot noir like Hamilton Russell maybe, though on warmer days, I tend to reach for a crisp white, probably a Chenin Blanc like Mullineux Granite. 

We can’t talk sports without mentioning those iconic jerseys. What’s your all-time favorite Arsenal kit, and how do you style it?

It’s got to be the SEGA and JVC kits from back in the day. Those jerseys had this classic, almost timeless feel. I also love the current one not just for its sleek design, but because of the African influence, especially with the Visit Rwanda sponsorship. When I’m off duty, I like to pair them with something laid-back like jeans and, of course, my happy socks. I guess It’s a mix of nostalgia and modern style.

You’ve seen the influence of African culture in sports and fashion. What’s one way African athletes are shaping global style trends, both on and off the field?

African athletes are trendsetters. From their hairstyles to their outfits, they bring a unique blend of heritage and modern fashion that’s catching on globally. It’s not just about what they wear; it’s how they wear it, with confidence and pride in their culture. They’re reshaping what it means to be a sports star today. Take for instance NFL star Jeremiah Owusu-Koramoah who once in a while represents Ghana in America and across the sport with his traditional attires. Chef’s kiss!

Lastly, let’s talk legacy. In a world where sports, fashion, and culture blend seamlessly, what’s the mark you want to leave? How do you hope your love for sports inspires others?

Good question. I really want to inspire others to see sports as more than just competition. It’s about how you carry yourself, how you connect with people, and how you express yourself. Whether it’s on the field or through fashion, I hope my passion for sports shows others that it’s okay to be unique and to bring your culture into everything you do.