NEWS: IShowSpeed Receives Exclusive FTY x Air Jordan 1 on His Ghana Stop.

 Ghanaian streetwear brand Free The Youth (FTY) has gifted popular American YouTuber and streamer IShowSpeed a very rare pair of FTY x Air Jordan 1 Mid “Friends & Family” sneakers during his visit to Ghana.

The special moment came to life when the sneakers were presented by Prince Brefo, alongside Famous, a model for Free The Youth, and Smallgod, the renowned Ghanaian creative entrepreneur and global culture connector known for promoting Ghanaian music, fashion, and nightlife on the international stage.

IShowSpeed, whose real name is Darren Watkins Jr., started his Africa tour in December 2025. The 21-year-old internet star plans to visit about 20 African countries, including Ghana, Nigeria, South Africa, Kenya, and Egypt. Throughout the tour, he has been meeting fans, trying local activities, learning dances, and sharing his experiences live with millions of followers around the world.

The tour is also meant to change how people see Africa. IShowSpeed has said he wants the world to see the real Africa full of energy, love, and culture. Many fans watching his live streams have said the trip has helped them see the continent in a more positive and realistic way. Along the journey, he has also supported fans and communities by making donations and promising to help schools in less privileged areas.

Free The Youth, the brand behind the sneaker gift, is one of Ghana’s most respected creative collectives. It was founded in 2016 and started as a page that shared Ghanaian street style. Over time, it grew into a fashion brand and creative group focused on empowering young Africans through art, fashion, music, and community projects.

FTY made history by becoming the first African brand to officially collaborate with Jordan Brand. Their Air Jordan 1 Mid “Friends & Family” sneakers were released in very limited numbers only 175 pairs worldwide. The design is inspired by Ghanaian street culture and represents confidence, pride, and bold self-expression.

The sneakers have been given to several well-known people around the world, including DJ Khaled, Sarkodie, Rema, and Ghanaian President John Dramani Mahama. Gifting a pair to IShowSpeed adds to the brand’s growing global recognition.

By giving IShowSpeed the exclusive sneakers, Free The Youth highlighted the power of African creativity and youth culture on the world stage. As IShowSpeed continues his Africa tour, moments like this help tell positive African stories and show how the continent is shaping global culture.