Hana Ismail Ahmed: Ubah Centre’s Advocate and Beacon of Change
At 24, Hana Ismail Ahmed is more than just a registered nurse—she’s a fearless advocate against FGM, child marriage, and harmful practices, driven by a passion for change. Coming from a region that rejected her ambitions, Hana faced community and family resistance for her dreams. She left her job and moved to Hargeisa, determined to join a research project on FGM, an issue she felt called to address.
Hana’s first encounter with Ubah Centre was life-changing. Encouraged by the founder, Hana joined the centre and found not only a safe space to alleviate stress and anxiety but also a supportive community that understood her vision. Ubah gave her the confidence to embrace her passions and the strength to face societal challenges. “I didn’t just come to play football; I came to grow, to learn, and to meet people who shared my dreams,” she says.
As a Ubah Champion, Hana’s role goes beyond participating in sports. She is an active advocate, working hand in hand with Ubah’s team to raise awareness about FGM, early child marriage, and women’s rights. Together, they hold sessions to educate girls on these issues, creating safe spaces where young women can voice their concerns and learn the importance of advocacy. Hana leads discussions at the centre, inspiring others to stand up for change and fight for a safer future for girls and women.
With Ubah’s support, Hana has become a positive thinker, a stronger activist, and a leader in her community. She sees Ubah Centre not only as her role model but as her “home,” a place that saved her and gave her purpose. Hana’s journey from isolation to empowerment is a powerful reminder of the transformative impact of support, community, and resilience. Today, she encourages other young women to join Ubah, telling them that football—and advocacy—is for everyone. To Hana, Ubah Centre is more than a sports centre; it’s a movement for change.