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ABOUT
Nanteza Mary Kevin is a trailblazer in Ugandan women’s football and the founder of Future a Girl, an initiative that empowers young girls through the sport. With a background in Human Resource Management from Multitech, she combines her expertise in leadership with her passion for football to create meaningful change.
Her journey into women’s football began five years ago when she noticed that many girls were eager to play but were restricted by societal norms and lack of resources. Seeing their enthusiasm yet recognizing the barriers they faced, she took action to create a platform where girls could access football training and opportunities in a supportive environment.
Breaking Barriers and Creating Opportunities
Despite cultural beliefs that football is a men’s game, Mary has remained steadfast in her mission to change perceptions and provide young women with the chance to play. Through Future a Girl, she has discovered and nurtured numerous football talents, many of whom have earned scholarships and returned to school, securing a brighter future.
For girls who were once school dropouts, football has become a powerful tool for education, empowerment, and self-confidence. Her initiative goes beyond the game itself—it fosters leadership, resilience, and a sense of belonging for young women who often lack opportunities in male-dominated sports spaces.
Overcoming Challenges with Determination
Like many pioneers in women’s football, MAry has faced significant challenges, particularly a lack of funding and access to essential football equipment. However, her determination and strong personality have allowed her to push forward. She believes that persistence and self-belief are key for anyone looking to make a difference in women’s football.
The joy she experiences in this field comes from seeing young female players grow in confidence, develop their skills, and defy societal expectations. She encourages aspiring professionals in the industry to remain resilient, believe in women’s empowerment, and never give up on their dreams.
A Vision for Women’s Football and Sustainability
Mary envisions a future where women’s football reaches the same level as men’s, offering equal career opportunities and professional recognition. She dreams of establishing a fully equipped women's football academy and building a competitive team that can excel at various levels of the sport.
Additionally, she sees football as a platform for social change, particularly in raising awareness about sustainability and environmental issues.
She believes that sports organizations and commercial partners have the power to lead by example, promoting eco-friendly practices and inspiring younger generations to take action for a greener future.
A Leader On and Off the Field
Beyond football, Mary is deeply passionate about humanitarian efforts, dedicating time to helping the less fortunate. She enjoys music, movies, and reaching out to those in need, embodying the spirit of leadership and compassion in everything she does.
As a mother, she extends her nurturing nature beyond her own family, seeing herself as a mentor and a guiding force for many young girls.
Her work with Future a Girl is not just about sports—it’s about giving hope, building communities, and paving the way for future generations of women in football.
