The Story of Cawo Bare: Finding Strength and Resilience through Ubah Centre
Cawo Bare Cise, a 21-year-old nursing graduate from Adna University, joined Ubah Centre in 2020, encouraged by her friend Hadiya. From a young age, Cawo viewed football as a sport that fosters health and strength, and she never accepted the notion that it was only meant for boys or men. However, she struggled to find a place where girls could play freely. That changed when she found Ubah Centre—a place that not only welcomed her but allowed her to thrive.
Before Ubah, Cawo often found herself stuck at home, unsure of how to fill her time when she wasn’t in school. Ubah Centre gave her a much-needed space to unwind, release stress, and simply be herself. “The team welcomed me, and I finally felt like I had a place where I could belong,” she shares. At Ubah, she rediscovered her love for football, which she once only played with her brothers, and began to experience the full impact of what it means to be part of a supportive community.
Despite the sense of freedom and empowerment she’s found at Ubah, Cawo continues to face challenges at home, where her mother still resists the idea of her playing football. Cawo faces this resistance head-on, determined not to let it stop her from pursuing something she loves. “I’ve learned that staying active is so important, not just for my physical health but also for my mental well-being,” she says. Her resolve is a testament to the strength and resilience she’s built since joining the Centre.
Recently, Cawo completed her degree in nursing, a major personal achievement. Yet, football has been just as instrumental in shaping who she is today. “Ubah gave me a space to relax and release stress, and it made me more confident in every aspect of my life,” she explains. Football has not only helped her stay healthy but has also given her a sense of purpose and community, helping her to grow emotionally and mentally.
Cawo’s message to other girls is one of encouragement: “I would urge every girl to pursue something they love, whether it’s football or any other form of excellence. Staying active is key to health and happiness, and no one should feel restricted by what others think.”
Her story is one of perseverance and strength. Ubah Centre has given her more than just a place to play football—it has provided her with a support system, a sense of belonging, and the confidence to face life’s challenges head-on. Cawo’s journey is a powerful reminder that with the right environment, young women can overcome obstacles and achieve greatness.