Reflecting on Octobers Black History Month, which had the theme “Standing Firm in Power and Pride”, I’ve taken some time to look back on my own journey in coaching and what it means to me to stand firm in who I am, where I’ve come from, and what I’m building for others.

I first got into coaching while playing at a young age. At just 15, living in Doha, I was part of the Under 19s Evolution Academy. I began to train with the coaches during sessions and quickly realised how much I enjoyed supporting and developing other players at the game. The experience opened my eyes to a different side of the game, one that focused more on teaching, guiding, and uplifting others, than just playing.

Now, as Head of Academy at a development Football Centre and a Manager of an Under 12s Academy team, I’m proud to be playing a role in shaping young players’ futures. Having two of my players scouted by big Midland clubs was one of my proudest moments of my coaching career so far. Watching them grow in confidence and ability reminds me why I do what I do, helping others see their potential and believe in their abilities to thrive.

For me, standing firm means staying true to my purpose and pushing forward even when opportunities aren’t always easy to come by. This is the reason I work hard to make coaching more accessible: to give young people a chance to gain experience, take their Level 1, and build the same confidence that once started my own journey. Some of our ex-players have recently become coaches themselves and seeing that cycle continue fills me with pride.

Black History Month is a reminder that I come from generations of strength, perseverance, and community; I carry that with me every time I step on to the pitch. Through coaching, I want to create spaces where young people, especially those from underrepresented backgrounds, can see themselves as leaders, role models, and game changers.

Standing firm in power and pride means using my platform to empower others, to show that with passion, commitment, and belief, we can all make a lasting difference.