Making Me Feel Equal
Hannie, Namibia
Goal Click and UNICEF UK collaborated on a series that highlights the impact that Soccer Aid for UNICEF has on children around the world. In Namibia, the Galz & Goals program uses football as a tool for social development and to prepare Namibia’s girls for a better future. Galz & Goals is a partnership between the Namibia Football Association and UNICEF. It empowers girls aged 10-15 to make healthy choices. Through their engagement in football, girls’ vulnerability to HIV infection, teenage pregnancy, school dropout and alcohol abuse is minimised as they acquire valuable skills and knowledge to make informed life choices both on and off the field of play. Hannie, 12, has been part of the program since 2021.
Can you introduce yourself and tell us about your football journey?
My name is Hannie Gomachas and I am 12 years old. I am from the beautiful capital city of Namibia, Windhoek and I live with my mother, father, two sisters, my nephew and an aunt.
I have been playing with the Galz & Goals program for the past two years. They found me playing in the streets and spoke to my parents. Football has been a rollercoaster for me because I had to watch my nephews play football all the time and could not play. After joining the Galz & Goals program I can now also enjoy playing soccer, including playing with my nephews. I now play for Athletic Club Football Academy (ACFA).
What did you try to capture with your photos? Was there a wider meaning with the photos?
I took the photos at our football field, which is situated on the outskirts of the capital city, Windhoek. I took photos of my nephews Daniel (12) and Antoine (11) and my friends, and wanted to show our fun times. I tried to take photos that give an impression of my life after the Galz & Goals program has positively enriched my life. I can play football with my nephews, and it has made me feel equal.
Why is football so important to you and your community? Why do you think it is important for women and girls to play football?
Many of my friends play football too. I think it is important for women to play football because most men think that, as women, we are not physically fit enough to play football. They limit us but it is not only about being fit, it is also about the passion and the mindset you have about the game.
What impact has UNICEF and the Galz & Goals program had on you and your community? Why is the Galz & Goals project important to you?
UNICEF and Galz & Goals has helped me a lot, because I now believe that I can achieve my dreams of becoming an international football player. Football has helped me with communication, especially with boys. I also finally have a strategy that can relax my brain before exams.
What ambitions do you have for the future?
I would like to become a professional football player and make it successfully through life.
