Breaking Barriers through Football
My name is Asma Mukhtaar. I was born on December 27, 1999, in Hargeisa, Somaliland, where I currently reside. My passion for football began in 2008 while I was still a student. I was fortunate to attend a school that provided a dedicated girls’ football pitch — a rare opportunity for young girls in my community.
In 2017, I discovered Ubah Center, a safe and empowering space designed exclusively for women and girls to pursue their interests and talents, including football. Inspired by this opportunity, I was invited by the center’s coach to join the Ubah Center Football Team — a moment that marked a turning point in my journey as a footballer. Since then, I have proudly worn the number 10 jersey, playing as a central midfielder.
In 2018, I joined a local mixed team made up of expatriates and humanitarian workers, who were granted permission to play once a week at a private facility called Lion Gate within our neighborhood. This experience allowed me to engage with diverse players, enhancing my skills and broadening my perspective.
My motivation to pursue football has always been fueled by my deep love for the game, combined with the support and encouragement of my family and friends. Ubah Inspire Center became a sanctuary for me and many other young women — a place where we could safely develop our abilities without fear or societal pressure.
Throughout my career, I have achieved significant milestones:
- Winning every tournament I participated in while representing Ubah Inspire.
- Receiving the highest honor in our league — the Ballon d’Or, and being named Top Goal Scorer of the season.
However, the journey has not been without challenges. One of the biggest disappointments I faced was being denied the chance to participate in the much-anticipated Women’s Regional Cup — a competition I had eagerly awaited. Additionally, societal perceptions posed a significant barrier. In my community, it was once widely believed that women should not play football. Although this mindset still lingers, it is gradually changing as more young women break barriers and pursue their passions.
Today, I continue to play for Ubah Inspire as a central midfielder, determined to inspire the next generation of young women in Somaliland. Through resilience, community support, and a shared passion for the game, we are reshaping the narrative for female athletes in our society.