The Streets Of Doha
Geraldine Menezes, Qatar
My name is Geraldine Menezes. I was born in Qatar, I am the founder of Sharp Shooters International, and I am a photographer and filmmaker. I grew up watching my dad play football and field hockey, he would organise tournaments in Qatar at various locations (school grounds, parks, and parking lots). Before he moved to Qatar, he captained the Indian airlines team in Delhi and Mumbai in the 70s. In India I come from Goa, where football is a religion - you will always see people playing football in the fields, be it rain or sunshine.
Sharp Shooters International is a photography company, which I founded in 2011 along with a friend I met at Photography School. Our main business comes from wedding photography in Mumbai and Goa. For the past two years we have volunteered our time and services for the Slum Soccer Cup, which takes place in Mumbai. Boys and girls from all over India travel to Mumbai for this tournament. We consider ourselves fortunate to be able to meet these kids and cover the event, as they have a lot of hardships back home. Even travelling to reach the tournament is a huge achievement for them. They are truly inspirational.
Who is in the photos? Where were the photos taken?
The photos come from the streets and Doha stadium, where I got to watch a splendid match between Qatari veteran players versus the Indian veterans. I visited the training schools of two friends - they train young kids regularly. And then I got to know of the inter-hotel tournament, taking place at Al Wakrah Stadium.
Are there any good stories connected with the people or teams you photographed?
Most photos are of kids practicing at a ground in Barwa Village. The person training them has been running these classes free of charge for the past few years now. As we all know sports coaching could make you lot of money nowadays, but he continues to teach for free for the love of football. What he is doing is truly amazing, as the children are spending their time so fruitfully and getting nurtured into fine players.
I climbed up the stairs to get a different angle of the ground. I noticed this boy reading the newspaper and thought how apt it was the sports column. I just found it hilarious that he was wearing a Messi jersey as well.
My brother told me about the inter hotel football cup organised by Fraser Suites, Doha. As I was waiting for the match to start and the team huddled up, it just struck me that a shot from the center facing upward would look amazing, so I ran there, went flat on the ground and got my shot.
I visited Sav’s fitness academy, to see kids practicing and was lucky to get a birthday celebration too. After practice, they all got together to sing for him, after which the birthday boy cut his cake and shared it with all kids there, their parents and his coach. It was wonderful to see the kids and parents celebrating together.
What is your favourite photo? Why?
There was a young boy kicking the ball on the street. I was out for a drive and this boy caught my eye. I pulled over, ran back and took this shot, he turned behind to see what I was doing and that really added a different dimension to this image.
I also captured two football legends from opposing teams just before a match. Namely Mubarak Mustafa, former captain of Qatar National Team & I.M Vijayan, Indian National Player. The icing on the cake – they are pointing at my Goal Click disposable camera and smiling.
What did you try to show with the photos? Was there any wider meaning with the photos?
I tried to show Unity! While playing football or looking for people to join your team, no one cares about your caste, creed or colour. All we care about is the game and everyone enjoys themselves.
What role does football play in Qatari society?
It brings people together, you see locals and expats playing tournaments, it’s bringing the people of Qatar even closer together. People are also becoming health conscious and looking at group activities as a medium to spend time outdoors and get fit too.
What changes are happening in Qatari football culture?
There are so many more events being held and those living in Qatar are welcome to volunteer. Everyone is getting involved, be it ladies, children, senior citizens, people with special needs. There is far more awareness and involvement.
What is the most surprising or interesting part of Qatari football culture?
From my personal travel experience I can say that Qatar is no more just another Middle Eastern country. During my trips overseas literally everyone I have met has told me only one thing: “see you in 2022”. Everyone is keeping a close watch on the world class and innovative new stadiums and they are eager to travel to Qatar to experience a different culture and a winter World Cup. Being a photographer, I truly believe a picture can change lives. Of course with social media, everything is so accessible now and the worlds perception of Qatar is no longer the same.
Why is football so important for your community?
I remember watching the finals of the AFC Asian Cup 2019, at Souq Waqif. Huge screens were put up and when Qatar won, all of us celebrated together. It is memories like these that matter and mean so much, especially to the kids as they are the next generation. If this is what they grow up watching, it will inspire them further.
What are the opportunities for female footballers in Qatar?
Qatar is doing an outstanding effort in promoting female athletes and women in various sports. Even a little encouragement goes a long way and I can proudly say, the leaders of our country are backing our women 200%. The support system is outstanding. I am so proud to be born in this country.
What does football mean to you?
For me football is a medium that brings people together. It’s great for instilling the importance of team building.
What will be the biggest impact of the World Cup in 2022?
Qatar is no more just a country in the Middle East. Today world leaders and people in general all over the world have their eyes on Qatar. And needless to say, Qatar already has the world in AWE of its preparation for 2022. Expect Amazing! The future is BRIGHT!
