Nigerian female footballer, Ramat Abdulkareem, has taken to social media to advocate for greater support for girls pursuing football careers.
In her original speech, she stated: “Dear parents, allow your girl child to pursue their dreams of being an athlete. Being a female footballer doesn’t make us less of a woman.
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Even if we look masculine, it still doesn’t make us less of a woman. We are potential mothers, and wives. You can still look feminine and play soccer.”
Abdulkareem’s heartfelt message challenges stereotypes associated with female athletes, particularly in football, where societal expectations sometimes clash with traditional gender roles.
She emphasizes that being a female footballer does not diminish one’s femininity and reassures that embracing a passion for the sport doesn’t compromise one’s identity as a potential mother or wife.
The footballer’s plea extends to parents, urging them to recognize the dreams and aspirations of their daughters, even if it means venturing into unconventional career paths.
Abdulkareem stresses the importance of dispelling stereotypes that may hinder girls from fully expressing their athletic talents.
In a society where perceptions about gender roles in sports persist, Abdulkareem’s message serves as a call for inclusivity and recognition of female athletes’ contributions.
By sharing her perspective, she contributes to the ongoing conversation about breaking barriers and fostering an environment where girls feel empowered to pursue their passion for football without fear of judgment.
As a female footballer, Abdulkareem’s advocacy reflects the broader movement towards gender equality in sports and encourages young girls to embrace their athletic abilities while maintaining their identity and femininity.
