The three-month programme provides personalised coaching and expert support, allowing participants to design and execute their own community-focused projects. Each initiative is shaped by the players’ personal journeys, addressing causes such as expanding girls’ football academies, supporting single mothers, and developing female leaders.
Kadeisha Buchanan: Transforming Personal Experience into Opportunity
Canada defender Kadeisha Buchanan is developing a foundation inspired by her upbringing in a single-parent home with six sisters. Her project will offer financial assistance, football access, and mentorship for single mothers and their daughters in Canada.
“It took a community to help me succeed,” Buchanan shared. “Now, I want to provide the same support for others.”
Players Pitch for Funding in London
After months of development, the 14 participants reconvened in London to present their initiatives to a panel including FIFA Chief Football Officer Jill Ellis, philanthropist Olivia Hall, and former Afghanistan international Khalida Popal. Selected projects received seed funding from FIFA.
Ellis highlighted the programme’s mission: “Players already have a legacy on the field. This initiative helps them build a legacy off it by using football as a force for good.”
Alessia Russo: Inspiring the Next Generation
England forward Alessia Russo created Power Her Play, an initiative focused on giving girls more opportunities to learn, grow, and play with confidence. “I’ve always wanted to make an impact beyond the pitch,” Russo said. “This programme helps bring that vision to life.”
A Programme Driving Real, Lasting Impact
For many participants, including FIFA Women’s World Cup winner Tierna Davidson, the programme has provided essential support at pivotal moments. “Starting something new is tough,” she said. “Having FIFA’s backing makes all the difference.”
With the Player Impact Programme, FIFA continues to expand opportunities for women and girls worldwide—helping top athletes use their voices and influence to create meaningful, lasting change.
This article was created with the assistance of AI and has been reviewed and edited by our editorial team.
