Nura Ahmed Daahir’s journey with football began in 2005, but it was anything but easy. Growing up in Hargeisa, Somaliland, she faced constant resistance from her family and community. In a society where girls rarely played football, Nuura was met with criticism and isolation. Her peers labelled her with nicknames like “tomboy” and “boyish,” as though her passion for the sport questioned her identity. These judgments set her apart from other girls, leaving her feeling misunderstood and isolated.
Nuura’s family initially struggled with her love for football, often discouraging her from playing. There were times when they withheld her training gear, and she had to get creative—borrowing her brother’s shoes or layering socks to protect her feet. But her passion never waned. Football was her escape, her hope, and her motivation to keep pushing forward.
Her life changed when she found Ubah Centre. Here, Nuura discovered a place where she was accepted, supported, and encouraged to embrace her passion. Ubah provided her with the resources and community she’d always longed for. With proper training facilities and a supportive network, she not only improved her skills but also regained the confidence she had lost. Ubah Centre helped her realize that her love for football was a strength, not a flaw.
As Nuura thrived at Ubah, her family began to see her growth and transformation. Witnessing her success and the positive impact Ubah had on her life, they gradually came to trust and support her journey. Ubah Centre helped open their minds to the value of her dreams, and today, they stand proudly behind her. This shift has allowed Nuura to pursue her passion without hesitation, with her family by her side.
But Ubah Centre didn’t just help Nuura follow her passion; it also became a source of income for her. Today, she serves as Ubah Centre’s head coach, a role that allows her to turn her love for football into a sustainable career. Ubah Centre is deeply committed to empowering women not only through support and encouragement but also by offering employment to their champions, contributing to women’s economic empowerment. This commitment to hiring from within their own ranks reflects Ubah’s broader mission to strengthen women’s roles in the local economy.
Now, as the head coach at Ubah Centre, Nuura is a beacon of inspiration for young girls facing similar challenges. Her journey, from isolation to empowerment, is a testament to resilience, the power of community, and the life-changing impact of Ubah. Through her role, she encourages girls to chase their dreams, just as she did, and she reminds families of the importance of supporting their daughters’ passions.