Zurich: It commenced in Paris during August, featuring 14 of the most prominent female footballers globally; a talented group invited to participate in the inaugural FIFA Player Impact Programme, a pilot initiative with a straightforward and essential goal: to empower professional footballers to utilize their platforms, voices, and resources for positive social transformation.
From FIFA Women’s World Cup champions and icons to some of the finest players in the women’s sport, the programme enabled players to conceptualize and spearhead their own social impact projects.
Leveraging their personal experiences both on and off the field, the players have concentrated on issues they are passionate about – ranging from supporting female leaders or single mothers to enhancing girls’ football academies.
By directing their influence towards action, the programme is assisting some of the sport’s most notable figures in effecting genuine, enduring change, embodying FIFA’s dedication to broadening opportunities and access for women and girls worldwide.
With backing from FIFA and expert advice from a leading external authority in sports social impact, players have gained from three months of tailored coaching following the initial three-day workshop held in Paris.
The programme equips players with the resources to effect change in areas they are passionate about. For Canadian stalwart Kadeisha Buchanan, the motivation stems from her personal journey.
Buchanan, who hails from Toronto, was raised in a single-parent household as the youngest of seven daughters. Her foundation seeks to offer football opportunities for single mothers and their daughters in Canada.
“My foundation is designed to create pathways through soccer,” she stated. “Thus, being able to provide them with funds for registration fees, travel expenses, and similar necessities, but also, it extends beyond the field, as we will be able to offer mentorship. Clearly, the funds are being allocated elsewhere in their families’ lives, such as rent and living costs, so they lack the additional money for enjoyable activities.
“Growing up with six sisters was quite challenging. There were numerous mouths to feed and many responsibilities to manage. However, my mother worked tirelessly, reaching out to friends and family for assistance with travel, registration fees, and uniforms. It truly required a community effort to help me reach my current position through football.”
“After three months of training and support, the 14 footballers in the pilot project cohort – which includes some of the most recognizable names in the sport – gathered again in London this month to present their social impact ideas to a panel.”
“The pitches were delivered to FIFA Chief Football Officer Jill Ellis; former Afghanistan international and foundation founder Khalida Popal; and philanthropist Olivia Hall, founder of Firebird Collective, which led to seed funding from FIFA that will enable players to implement their initiatives.”
“I have been truly impressed by the thoughtfulness of their projects, their significance to the players, and the tangible impact they aim to achieve,” remarked Ellis. “The players have established their legacy on the field, but how can we assist them in building their legacy off the field? How can they influence the communities from which they originate?”
“The subjects presented were varied, yet a common theme emerged: they genuinely care and wish to tackle a problem. It is inspiring to hear their insights, the depth of their consideration, and the actions they plan to undertake.”
“At its essence, this embodies our mission. We uphold the belief that ‘football unites the world’; this initiative fosters community. It is about leveraging football as a catalyst for positive change. For FIFA, this is fundamentally what we aspire to achieve. How can we facilitate access and opportunities for individuals?”
“For numerous players, utilizing their platform to effect social change has been a long-standing aspiration, and this program offers the guidance and resources necessary to transform that vision into reality. With FIFA’s expertise and unwavering support, participants will gain from coaching, financial aid, and global visibility.”
“We have been presented with a remarkable opportunity to collaborate with FIFA and collectively develop a genuine individual project that we hope will significantly influence various sectors,” stated England forward Alessia Russo. “It is truly wonderful to connect with all the girls, listen to their stories, and understand their passions. I eagerly anticipate witnessing everyone bring this initiative to fruition.
“I have always aspired to make a difference beyond the football field,” Russo continued, who has initiated a program called ‘Power Her Play’ aimed at creating opportunities for girls to engage in football with pride, learn with intention, and live with empowerment.
“My love for football has always been accompanied by a passion for connecting with young girls and fans I encounter throughout my journey. For me, nurturing the next generation has always been of utmost importance.”
FIFA Women’s World Cup Champion and Gotham FC player Tierna Davidson is among the numerous participants whose impactful project has been influenced by her personal journey in women’s football. The backing of the program has provided significance during what has been a challenging year of dealing with injuries.
“Initiating a project is incredibly challenging, particularly taking that first step. Having FIFA’s support is absolutely vital,” she remarked.
