In the heart of Huye city, a remarkable tale unfolds – that of Michelle Ruzibiza, a 13-year-old Burundian refugee whose passion for football has defied gender stereotypes and inspired her community.
Michelle’s journey began in 2015 when along with her mother and elder sister, she sought refuge in Rwanda, fleeing the political turmoil in Burundi. Despite facing challenges of displacement, Michelle’s love for football never faltered. Expressing her passion for football proved to be an uphill struggle especially in a community where football was, and often still is, perceived as a male-dominated pursuit.
The turning point came in 2021 when Paris Saint Germain (PSG) partnered with the Government of Rwanda’s ‘Visit Rwanda’ brand, initiating a selection tour in schools across Huye District. Against all odds, Michelle excelled at every stage of the selection process.
On the pitch and in the classroom, Michelle now balances her studies with football training. She explains that she dedicates one hour of training on workdays and two hours on weekends, something that is also emphasized by the PSG Academy.
According to Michelle, the PSG Academy provided her with a new perspective on football, viewing it not just as a game but as a technical pursuit requiring dedicated learning – akin to academic subjects.
“Before joining the PSG academy, I used to think that football is just a game like any other game that we play for fun; but now I see football as a game that requires more concentration, more learning. It is more technical than I thought,” says Michelle.
Michelle’s journey was made possible by the inclusive policies of the Government of Rwanda towards refugees. This support extends beyond provision of essential services and protecting refugees and asylum seekers but includes social and economic aspects.
For instance, PSG Academy players from all over the world were invited to participate in the annual PSG World Cup in Paris from 10th to 18th May 2024. Michelle was one of the best girls who were chosen to represent the PSG academy Rwanda and they won third place.
Michelle’s mother deeply appreciates the opportunities her daughter received, acknowledging the role of the government of Rwanda, UNHCR, and PSG in making her dream a reality. Expressing a wish for broader talent scouting in refugee camps, she believes there are more gifted youngsters eager to benefit from similar life-changing opportunities.
“I am grateful for this opportunity that is making my daughter live a more fulfilled life despite the situation we are in. I also thank the Government of Rwanda and UNHCR for their roles in making this possible; by providing necessary documents for Michelle and for including us refugees into different opportunities,” Michelle’s mother points out.
Her mother also confesses that paying for the courses offered by PSG themselves would have been completely costly and unaffordable for the family.
Michelle’s coach, Grace Nyinawumuntu is very impressed by Michelle’s courage, motivation, and resolute determination. She commended her for never missing a training session and always being punctual.
“Michelle is such a strong, motivated and determined girl; she never misses training sessions, and she is always on time,” says Grace, Michelle’s coach.
The General Director of PSG Academy in Rwanda, Mr. Ndanguza Theonas, highlighted their commitment to developing well-rounded individuals, focusing on character and academic achievements alongside athletic prowess. He also hopes that the PSG Academy Rwanda activities will expand to more young and talented refugees in the other refugee camps such Kigeme and Mugombwa, free of charge, in the near future.
As Michelle’s star continues to rise, her story stands as a testament to the transformative power of sports, education, and the unwavering support of communities and visionary institutions.
By Nicole Umutoniwase
Source: UNHCR Rwanda