Since the unprecedented rise of women’s football in recent years, the sport has sparked a huge interest in young females, and Angela is one of them. Female football is a fruitful sport that promotes participation and growth, boosts self-esteem and confidence, and for many girls, it presents great prospects for future success.

Angela, aged 12 has discovered a new passion that brings her immense joy and keeps her safe and healthy — football. Her journey from uncertainty to enthusiasm is a heartwarming tale of growth and teamwork.

“I once thought that football was just about kicking the ball around,” Angela admits. “But now, I see that it is much more. It is about working together as a team to win.”

Angela’s initial reluctance to join a football team stemmed from apprehension. She was not sure if she would fit in or enjoy the sport. Encouraged by her friends and a female coach, she decided to play soccer.

From the first practice, Angela realized that football was an entirely different experience than she had imagined. The excitement of learning new skills, and the drill of the game soon won her over – with each practice, her confidence grew, and so did her love for the sport.

“Playing football gives me joy and makes me stay healthy,” she says with a smile. “I am beginning to like this sport a lot.”

Angela’s coach, Cecelia, has noticed a remarkable change in Angela as she progressed in playing the sport frequently. “She’s becoming more confident and active. It is wonderful to see Angela and the other girls enjoying themselves and working as a team,” says Cecelia.

For Angela, this newfound passion for football is just the beginning of what promises to be a fulfilling journey both on and off the field.

Angela and 29 other children and young people are participants of the Sports for Development Project. The project is an initiative of Orange “All Connected” sports challenge being implemented by SOS Children’s Villages in Liberia. The project aims to discover hidden talents and develop grassroots female soccer and male basketball players, thus  boosting their self-esteem and confidence. The project does not only promote young people’s participation in sports, it serves a platform for building leadership skills and exchange on injury prevention and healthy living, substance abuse prevention, the use of technology, and Artificial Intelligence amongst other things.

Written by Joseph Joboe, Communications, Brand & Advocacy Coordinator