First captain of Palestine women’s football team spreads the message

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Published: 5 April 2021

Last updated: 5 March 2024

VIDEO: Honey Thaljieh, who has fought prejudice all her life, now promotes equality through sport for boys and girls alike in her role at FIFA

IF YOU ASK PALESTINIANS to name the captain of the men’s national football team, some might struggle. But mention the name Honey Thaljieh, and they know exactly who you are talking about.

Thaljieh was born in Bethlehem and grew up in occupied Palestine. She first came to prominence as a player in 1984, as the co-founder and first-ever captain of the Palestinian women’s football team.

She had to overcome prejudice and break through social and political barriers to achieve this goal, and became a role model to women and girls in the Middle East and beyond. But a series of knee injuries ended her playing career.

This film follows Thaljieh’s efforts to influence the next generation of boys and girls as she continues to be a strong voice for empowerment and equality through sport.

FULL STORY Honey Thaljieh: First captain of Palestine women’s football team (Al-Jazeera)

Photo: Honey Thaljieh, now Corporate Communications Manager at FIFA (Twitter)