Jordan Brand is celebrating ten years of global impact through its Wings initiative with a series of milestone moments: launching a new chapter in London, forming a fresh partnership in Paris, and releasing a special 10th anniversary Wings Air Jordan 5 — all while awarding scholarships to more than 350 students across the U.S., Philippines, and China.
These initiatives highlight the continued growth of the Wings program and Jordan Brand’s enduring commitment to providing young people with access to education, mentorship, and inspiration in key basketball culture hubs worldwide.
“The Wings program 10-year anniversary is one of the milestones I am most proud to have been a part of,” said Howard White, VP of Jordan Brand.
“To build a true legacy of greatness, it must start with education. Wings has created opportunities for more than 4,000 scholars globally, allowing them to reach their full potential and help shape the future.”
(C) Jordan Brand
Rooted in Michael Jordan’s legacy and his belief in the transformative power of education, the Wings initiative stands as one of Jordan Brand’s most impactful global, social, and community-driven programs.
“For the past decade, the Wings initiative has empowered thousands of young minds around the world, paving the way for future leaders,” said Sarah Mensah, President of Jordan Brand. “From basketball to design, from scholars to interns, we are helping youth define greatness on their own terms.”
In Manila, Jordan Brand has partnered with Ateneo de Manila University to provide full four-year scholarships to underprivileged high school graduates, giving them the chance to pursue higher education and serve their communities.
Three cohorts of Jordan Wings Scholars (Classes of 2026, 2027, and 2028) are already on their journey to discovering their own greatness.
This year’s class of more than 350 Wings Scholars — from Charlotte, Chicago, Los Angeles, New York, Philadelphia, Portland, Manila, and 33 cities across China — joins a global network of over 4,000 students supported through the program over the past decade. The initiative provides pathways to success in higher education, particularly in creative industries, teaching, coaching, and sport.
(C) Jordan Brand
Beyond scholarships, Wings also opens doors through its Intern Program, which has placed 36 students in NIKE, Inc. internships worldwide. Meanwhile, over 1,400 students have completed the Wings Design Program — a launchpad for young creatives aspiring to enter design school, start their own brands, or develop products for social change.
These efforts are fueled by 28 global community partners and supported by Jordan Brand and Nike employees, who have collectively contributed more than 146,000 volunteer hours over the past 10 years.
“Over the next 10 years, the Wings program will play an even more pivotal role in tackling educational challenges,” said Cameryn Rutlin, Director of Purpose, Wings. “We will deepen our commitment to providing access to quality education and resources, particularly in communities that need it most. By 2035, our goal is to empower over 10,000 students worldwide to pursue their dreams.”
To commemorate the program’s 10th anniversary, Jordan Brand is releasing a special Air Jordan 5 that embodies a decade of breaking barriers and inspiring others to soar.
The Wings Air Jordan 5 features a tin and aluminum-inspired colorway — traditional symbols of a 10-year milestone — along with a powerful reminder on the toe: “In the Family, No One Flies Alone.” A Wings Jumpman logo replaces the traditional Nike Air embroidery at the heel, and the number 10 takes the place of the signature “23” on the foxing.
Additional design details include a Wings label inside the tongue, outsoles that align to form the number 10 when placed side by side, and a Wings 10-year logo charm paired with a graduation cap tassel — celebrating both the program’s anniversary and the achievements of its scholars.
“Our latest AJ5 is more than just a shoe; it’s a testament to the journey,” said Rutlin. “It symbolizes the Wings initiative’s commitment to becoming a generational beacon of access, equity, and opportunity — inspiring all to dream beyond what they can see.”
The Wings Air Jordan 5 will be available globally in women’s and men’s sizes starting September 24 on SNKRS.
(C) Jordan Brand
