Breaking Barriers: Trizah Musyoka’s Trailblazing Path in Football and Community Empowerment

In Makima, Embu County, a powerful narrative of resilience and determination is reshaping traditional gender roles. Trizah Musyoka, a 24-year-old mother of two, is making history and inspiring her community. As the New Beginning Youth Group chairperson and a passionate advocate for social accountability and women’s rights, Trizah is redefining what it means to be a woman in her community.

Supported by ActionAid Kenya through the Mwangaza Women Rights Organisation, Trizah leads a group that champions governance issues within Makima and runs a computer hub providing vital services to the community. The group recently conducted social accountability initiatives to ensure local amenities are well-equipped to serve the citizens of Makima. Additionally, Trizah’s contributions extend beyond governance and technology into sports, where she has made an unprecedented mark as Makima’s first accredited female referee.

In a community where football is traditionally a male-dominated sport, Trizah’s achievement is groundbreaking. She received her referee certification in November 2022, a milestone that garnered both admiration and skepticism.

“Many people wondered why I chose to become a referee, given that it’s usually a male-dominated field here,” she reflects. Yet, her passion for football and desire to challenge societal norms fueled her pursuit of this unconventional path.

Trizah’s journey has not been without challenges. As she began officiating matches, she encountered resistance and criticism, especially when making contentious calls. “After my training, I found it challenging to officiate matches due to the backlash,” she admits. Despite the difficulties, these experiences only strengthened her determination to succeed.

Starting as an assistant referee, Trizah faced teasing from fans but used these moments to build rapport. “Initially, they teased me, but over time, we became great friends,” she says with a smile. These interactions helped her grow personally and professionally, and she gradually moved up to the role of center referee, a position that demands confidence and authority.

Despite initial hurdles, Trizah’s persistence has paid off. She has officiated 10 matches, including those involving men’s teams, earning the respect of players and spectators alike. Her presence on the field has become a symbol of fairness and impartiality. “With time, I have perfected my skills, and now I enjoy the support of football fans who cheer me on,” she proudly shares.

Trizah’s story is not just about her achievements in refereeing; it’s about breaking barriers and challenging stereot

ypes. Her success has inspired many in Makima, particularly young girls who now see new possibilities for themselves. The support from ActionAid Kenya and the Mwangaza Women Rights Organisation has been crucial, providing her with the training and confidence needed to excel.

Trizah’s journey is a beacon of hope and a powerful reminder of the transformative power of determination. Despite financial challenges that prevented her from pursuing further education, she has carved out a path that blends leadership, sports, and community service. Her role as a referee in a male-dominated sport challenges long-standing gender norms and sets a new standard for what women can achieve.

As she continues to lead her youth group and officiate matches, Trizah remains committed to her mission of empowering women and promoting gender equality. Her story is a testament to the fact that with passion and perseverance, one can overcome societal barriers and inspire others to do the same.

In Trizah Musyoka’s words, “My passion wouldn’t allow me to give up.” Her story is a powerful narrative of breaking barriers and serving as an inspiration not only to her community but to anyone who faces barriers due to gender or societal expectations. Trizah’s journey is a vivid reminder that when women are given the opportunity and support, they can achieve incredible things and become true agents of change.

 

Author: Ezra Kiriago ,Communications Coordinator ActionAid Kenya.