In football, on field moments can be thought-provoking and inspiring. However, off the field, FIFA are supporting a major development in the form of social action projects, which have been proposed by fourteen different players including household WSL names such as Bunny Shaw and Alessia Russo
The initiative covers players in various worldwide leagues who are also creating social action projects such as Melchie Dumornay, who currently plays for French side Olympique Lyonnais. The type of project varies, but there’s one constant that runs throughout this programme – the need to help and support those in need.
Jill Ellis, Fifa Chief Football Officer said:
“I’ve been blown away to hear how thoughtful their projects are, how meaningful they are to them, and the actual impact of what they’re trying to do.”
Some players are creating projects close to home. For example, Shaw is focusing on helping support those providing aid in the aftermath of Hurricane Melissa, which recently hit her home nation of Jamaica. In the aftermath of the tragic event which saw 28 casualties, vital supplies such as food and medical equipment were distributed across the country by her foundation.
Chelsea defender Kadeisha Buchanan is helping single mothers in Canada. Her aim is to support children of single mothers to play football so they can have an equal opportunity, even if they are struggling financially. FIFA are acting as a major support network for the players involved in these projects, helping them put together their ideas and handing out startup grants of over £18,000 as well as coaching them as they undertake the work they are doing.
Speaking about her social action project, Buchanan said:
“My foundation is built to create pathways through soccer. So, being able to grant them funds for registration fees, travel costs and stuff like that.”
Russo’s project aims to encourage more young women to have opportunities to play football. The prolific striker is a fan favourite both on the international stage and for her club, Arsenal and it’s imperative for her that her project gives back to the community and to those who wish to play professionally.
Russo said:
“I’ve always loved football, but I’ve also loved connecting with young girls and young fans that I meet along the way. For me, it’s always been really important to develop the next generation.”
This will not only help to grow the women’s game further with positive exposure but will also have a long lasting social impact that has the power to resonate with people and may encourage them to help out, as well as increasing global recognition – the players involved are from 13 different countries, including Malawi’s Tabitha Chawinga and Japan’s midfield maestro Saki Kumagai. It’s a clear indication of humility and kindness away from the pitch, speaking volumes about who these players are as people and with FIFA having said they will be aiming to run this yearly, with 2025 being the inaugural campaign, this can only go on an upward trajectory.
https://inside.fifa.com/womens-football/news/player-impact-programme-women-footballers-social-change
https://www.mancity.com/news/womens/bunny-shaw-jamaica-hurricane-relief-63899263
