At the WE United Academy, young girls step onto the field not just to learn football, but to become stronger, more confident versions of themselves. The Academy was built on a simple belief: when girls are given a safe, supportive, and encouraging environment, they don’t just play better, they become more courageous, resilient, and confident. Every training session blends football with leadership, communication, teamwork, and self-belief. Players learn to take initiative, speak up, try new positions, learn from mistakes, and support one another.
When 14-year-old Karuna Rai first joined the WE United Academy, she was shy, quiet, and often unable to focus on her studies. She began playing football simply out of curiosity after watching her schoolmates and teachers. Today, she steps onto the field with excitement. “The moment I enter the ground, I feel good. Shooting, scoring goals, and playing with my friends excites me,” she shares.
Karuna’s mother has seen remarkable growth in her daughter. Football has helped her become more disciplined, more focused, and stronger in her skills, especially shooting and dribbling.
“My coaches always motivate me and provide feedback. When I make mistakes, they don’t scold me; they suggest ways I can improve. Before, I used to hesitate to speak with my coaches, but now I can talk to them freely and share my problems,” Karuna shares.
A turning point for Karuna came after participating in the Lincoln Futsal Tournament. Despite making mistakes due to nervousness, she learned from the experience. In the next friendly match against St. Xavier’s School, she coordinated well with her teammates and scored under pressure, a moment that made her proud and showed how far she had come. Her confidence has also inspired her younger sisters and juniors, who now want to join football after seeing her play.
Meanwhile, at Kaasthamandap Vidhyalaya, 9th grader Jenny Doma Sherpa balances her love for art and football. She started playing in grade three, but her football journey paused during the COVID lockdown. Jenny loves playing as a Right Winger (RW), making quick runs down the flank and crossing the ball into the box. “I enjoy creating chances for my teammates and being part of the attack without always having to be the one scoring,” she says. The position keeps her active, alert, and constantly involved in the game.
“My love for football has grown so much since joining WE United,” Jenny shares. “I’ve learned a lot, not just about the game, but about myself.” After joining the Academy, she has seen herself make new friends, become healthier, and feel happier. She has also developed an interest in many other sports.
Jenny says, “WE United is like family to me! We don’t only train, we learn and explore together. I’m always having fun and learning so many things from our amazing coaches, who not only teach us football but also train our minds to be hardworking and confident. My coaches, Kamana, Pratigya, Saraswati, and the WE United team have always supported me through my highs and lows. They’ve taught me that every goal comes with obstacles, and they gave me the strength and confidence to become who I am today.”
Jenny was the captain of the WE United Academy team during the Lincoln Futsal Tournament. For her, leadership means leading by example, supporting teammates through highs and lows, and making sure everyone feels seen and valued. It’s not just about being the best player; it’s about lifting others up and creating a team that succeeds together.
Her message to younger girls is simple:
“Go for it! Football isn’t just for boys. You don’t have to be perfect to start. Your team becomes a second family that always has your back.”
Their journey reflects what WE United Academy stands for: giving girls the tools, confidence, and opportunities to become leaders. Over time, girls who once walked in shy and unsure begin to lead warm-ups, call for the ball loudly, encourage teammates, and build confidence.
The Academy team in Kathmandu, accompanied by parents, teachers and the local community during the first WE United Academy Tournament 2024
Just like Karuna and Jenny, many more young girls are waiting for the chance to build their confidence, develop their skills, get a chance to play, and feel supported. You can help make these opportunities possible by supporting WE United Academy, whether through donating football equipment, organizing a fundraiser, or making a direct contribution. Every act of support ensures that more girls have access to a safe, encouraging environment where they can learn, grow, and become leaders. Click here to donate.
