FOBEWORLD STORIES
Beya's Dream
Football as a Pathway to Hope
Story from the field | Photos by Elisha Abumba
By
Henri-dunant chikuru & dan yESSA
FOBEWORLD STORIES
Beya's Dream
Football as a Pathway to Hope
Story from the field | Photos by Elisha Abumba.
By
Henri-dunant chikuru & dan yESSA
“My dream is to fully pursue my passion for football, join a reputable team, have a jersey with my name on it, and own a pair of football boots. I also hope to return to school, regain a normal life as a girl, and receive support for my hygiene needs. Through football, I see a pathway to achieve these dreams, a way to overcome the challenges I face here in the IDP Camp, and a source of hope for a better future.” – BEYA 14-year-old Girl living in the Kanyaruchinya IDP Camp in DRC.
Football is more than just a game. It is a powerful tool that has the ability to unite people, promote social cohesion, and empower children and adolescents in remarkable ways. For many children and adolescents around the world, football is a way to stand tall and face life’s adversities, where support structures are often weak or non-existent, football becomes a means for them to unite their voices and strengths, finding hope and inspiration to dream again.
In conflict-affected regions like the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, ongoing conflicts have led to the displacement of countless families, including children and adolescents. The impact of these conflicts on their lives is profound, disrupting their education, threatening their safety, and depriving them of basic necessities. In such challenging circumstances, football serves as a beacon of light, offering these young individuals a sense of normalcy, a space to express themselves, and a platform to build essential life skills.
Fobeworld recognizes the transformative power of football and uses it as a vehicle to reach children and adolescents in conflict-affected regions. Through our soccer-based programs, we provide a safe and supportive environment where these young individuals can play, learn, and grow. One such inspiring adolescent story is the story of Beya, a 14-year-old girl who has been displaced by war and forced to halt her education, now she lives in the IDP camp in eastern DRC. Despite these challenges, Beya finds joy and strength in playing football thanks to our football program, dreaming of a future where she can pursue her passion for the sport and return to school.
Empowering children and adolescents through football goes beyond just teaching them physical skills. It instills in them valuable life skills such as teamwork, leadership, and resilience. It gives them a sense of belonging and purpose, helping them to develop confidence and self-esteem. Most importantly, it offers them hope for a better future, where they can overcome the challenges they face and fulfill their potential.
Join us in our journey of empowering children and adolescents through Football.
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