About Soccer Without Borders at the Women's World Cup!
After lengthy application and visa approval processes, we are thrilled to share that Michell Guadamuz of Soccer Without Borders Nicaragua and Fahaby Kitimbo of Soccer Without Borders Uganda have been selected as two of just 70 worldwide representatives for the Women's World Cup Festival '23 in Sydney, Australia. This 8-day youth leadership "Festival" brings together rising stars in sport for development from over 30 different countries during the quarterfinals week of the tournament, each representing organizations working to use soccer as a tool for positive social change. Hosted by Common Goal and Football United, the week places a major focus on gender equity and women's leadership, and is designed to build a lasting social legacy by investing in the future leaders of the sector. While there have previously been 10 similar festivals at major global soccer events, Michell, a coach and alumna of SWB Nicaragua, is the first Nicaraguan representative ever to be officially selected. This will undoubtedly create a ripple of pride and support not only in her home community of Granada, but across the country. While Fahaby is not the first Ugandan to attend a festival, her selection is a well-earned reflection of her tremendous effort to grow the game for refugee girls across Kampala. Through her vision and determination, the Kampala Girls league grew from an idea to now engaging over 500 girls in their first-ever league. Both of these women are trailblazers in their communities and role models to hundreds of girls. Please consider making a financial gift to support the cost of their journey to the World Cup (flights, visas, preparation, airport transfers) and to support their work in Nicaragua and Uganda upon their return!
