At TotalEnergies CHAN 2024, one woman is turning language into a bridge, connecting fans from across Africa. Her mastery of multiple languages ensures every announcement, interview, and update resonates, proving that in football, communication is just as powerful as the game itself.
In the bustling media center of Mandela National Stadium, where the hum of journalists mixes with the rhythmic clicks of camera shutters, one volunteer quietly commands attention not with noise, but with impact. Shifa Ismail, 28, is more than a helping hand behind the scenes; she is a bridge across languages, cultures, and continents. Fluent in Arabic, Kiswahili, English, Luganda, and Nubi, Shifa embodies the spirit of “Pamoja” — togetherness at the TotalEnergies CAF African Nations Championship (CHAN) 2024.
Her roots stretch across Uganda’s cultural map. “I am a Muslim Lugbara from Arua Terego District. My father was from Arua, and my mother is from Bombo, home to the Nubians. I was born and raised in Kampala, the third of four children,” she says. Her upbringing was a daily immersion in multiple languages. Kiswahili and Nubi flowed naturally in her home, while her grandfather’s love for BBC Swahili left a lasting mark. This rich linguistic environment became her first classroom, preparing her for a future in multilingual communication.
Shifa’s formal education ended after senior six. “I couldn’t continue to university because my parents couldn’t afford it, and we had just lost my father,” she recalls. Yet life became her classroom. She worked in Saudi Arabia and the UAE as a domestic worker, tutor, and human resources interpreter, honing her language skills and cultural adaptability. Sports have always been part of Shifa’s story. From playing netball and football in primary school to competing with family members, she nurtured her love for athletics early on. Today, she channels that passion as chairperson of the Uganda Premier League Fans Meetup, a member of the African Women in Sports Initiative, and a volunteer with Soltilo Bright Stars, connecting coaches with young refugees.
Shifa’s journey to CHAN began with a simple social media post. Joining a team of 40 volunteers managing logistics and communications, she found a transformative experience. “CHAN has improved my communication skills, expanded my network, and, in sha Allah, may open doors to greater opportunities,” she says. Being a woman in Ugandan sports is not without hurdles. Shifa confronts financial barriers to education, low pay compared to men, stigma, and harassment. Yet her vision remains unwavering: she plans to return to school, earn a doctorate in sports, and become one of Africa’s leading sports administrators. “I want to show that women can lead in sports and create opportunities for those who have had doors closed to them,” she asserts.
Amid the roar of vuvuzelas and match-day urgency, Shifa’s message to young girls is clear: “Don’t give up. Keep loving your sport there’s space for everyone. Stay strong despite hardships. When women thrive, communities thrive.” Shifa’s story is still unfolding. While she continues to excel as a volunteer, her educational journey remains open, waiting for the right opportunity to turn the page. In the spirit of “Pamoja,” perhaps a supporter or organization will recognize her not just as a skilled volunteer, but as a worthy investment in Africa’s sporting future.
