Chidera Festus, a young and passionate aspiring referee, was among over 100 participants at the FIFA Yemisi Gives Back symposium held at the Lagos State Referee Association Secretariat on September 21st. The event, organized by Nigerian FIFA referee Yemisi Eunice Akintoye, aimed to inspire and educate the next generation of female referees.
Chidera expressed her excitement about the training, calling it a privilege to learn from top referees and facilitators like FIFA referee Hope Igho and retired referee Bukky Olisa. She shared her enthusiasm for the opportunity, stating, My dream of becoming a world class referee is gradually becoming a reality. The training sessions covered essential refereeing rules, techniques, and fitness, helping participants like Chidera gain confidence and deepen their love for the profession.
The event provided Chidera and her peers with hands on training and networking opportunities, creating a sense of community among aspiring referees. Chidera credited the program with boosting her determination to pursue her dreams of becoming a professional referee.
The FIFA Yemisi Gives Back initiative continues to empower young women, offering them the skills and knowledge needed to excel in refereeing and inspiring them to pursue their goals in football.
Editorial
The FIFA Yemisi Gives Back symposium represents an incredible opportunity for aspiring referees like Chidera Festus. Her story is one of passion, determination, and inspiration, underscoring the importance of programs like these in empowering young women in football. Chidera’s excitement and gratitude for the training are clear indicators of the positive impact this initiative is having on the next generation of referees.
The symposium’s emphasis on hands on training, led by seasoned professionals, provides participants with invaluable insights and practical skills. It also serves as a platform for building a community of support among women aiming to excel in a male dominated field. Yemisi Akintoye’s initiative is crucial not only for developing future referees but also for fostering a sense of belonging and empowerment within the world of sports.
Chidera’s story is a reminder of how dreams can take flight when opportunities and guidance are provided. Her journey will inspire many others to pursue their aspirations in the world of football.
Did You Know?
- Yemisi Eunice Akintoye is a Nigerian FIFA referee and organizer of the FIFA Yemisi Gives Back training symposium.
- The event was held at the Teslim Balogun Stadium, a prominent sports venue in Lagos.
- Over 100 participants attended the symposium, receiving training in the latest refereeing techniques and fitness regimes.
- Chidera Festus dreams of becoming a world-class referee, and this symposium has helped fuel her passion.
- The program is designed to empower young women in football by providing them with the skills and knowledge to succeed in refereeing.
