Alex Iwobi in action against Aston Villa
Alex Iwobi played the full 90 minutes as Everton lost to Aston Villa on Saturday

The heat that hit England at the weekend made many want to take a day off.

Alex Iwobi arrived in Northern Ireland less than 24 hours after his team's loss.

The Ethnic Minority Sports Organisation Northern Ireland group (EMSONI) was linked up with Project 17 by Iwobi.

The aim of the organization is to develop ethnic minority sports in Northern Ireland and to integrate minority ethic and local communities.

The Northern Ireland Confederations Cup is a football tournament that brings together teams from different ethnic groups in the country.

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It wasn't a relaxing day off from work, with stops and meetings with fans, volunteers and the Lord Mayor, but Iwobi had a great time.

It brings me back to when I was a child. Iwobi said that he was playing with different cultures when he was in London.

I want everyone to have the same chance as I did as a child. Football brings people together because you can experience a lot of life situations in the game.

I'm here to help the community. I show up and support as much as I can.

I want everyone to have the same opportunity - Everton's Iwobi

It was a busy day for Iwobi in Northern Ireland. The first stop was to the offices of ESMONI for a press conference before the delegation went on to discuss the project with the Lord Mayor.

With a big smile on his face, the young man was taking everything in, from the people and photo opportunities to the architecture in the City Hall at the very heart ofBelfast.

He went to Ulidia Playing Fields, where the final of the NI Confederations Cup will take place, before going to Midgley Park to watch the NI Confederations Cup semi.

Iwobi, who was born in Nigeria's capital Lagos before moving to England, said that he felt compelled to support the cause when he heard about the work of EMSonI.

He said there was no doubt that they wanted to take advantage of it.

I want it to grow and elevate. It's crazy to come here and watch it for myself.

There are 20 communities involved this year, compared to 15 last year. I had an opportunity to meet with the mayor of the city of Belfast.

There is a chance for everyone. At the end of the day, I am the same as everyone else.

I only had support from my family when I was a child. I'm thankful for what I have, but things like EMSonI can help people in the future.

Iwobi 'a success story'

When the semi-finals of the Confederations Cup were lined up with a day off for Iwobi, he and his team were able to complete the deal.

He said that they were happy with the passion from him.

A promising young guy who has done well for himself uses his platform to inspire young people and bring communities together.

A lot is brought to Northern Ireland by Alex. He's a success story because he did well for himself. It's a good example of what people can do for themselves.

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It "speaks a lot" that Iwobi was willing to travel to Northern Ireland between the game at Villa Park and his return to training on Monday.

It's amazing." He said that it is natural for him.

He wants to give back to society. I would encourage other internationals to follow in his footsteps.

These guys need someone to identify with. Alex is proud of what he's doing.

I am proud of the volunteers and the organization. I'm glad he's in Belfast for the first time and he's loving it. We can't say enough good things about him.