Translation. Region: Russian Federation –
Source: United Nations – United Nations –
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November 8, 2025 Refugees and migrants
Mary, a University of Manchester student, arrived in Belfast from South Sudan with her younger brother in the summer of 2021, when she was 18. Because her brother was a minor, he was immediately placed into care, and Mary was housed in a hotel. Anxiety and loneliness plagued Mary's first weeks in the new city.
"That first day I set foot in Belfast, everything seemed strange," she recalls. "The weather was cold, even though it was summer. The culture, the language—everything was new to me. I felt alone."
Everything changed when Mary learned about the refugee football programme run by Street NI through its Street Soccer initiative.
"I was so happy," she says. "I was really nervous and didn't know anyone… and then I started playing soccer, joined Street Soccer—and everyone was amazing. The people, the coaches—everyone was friendly."
Street NI was founded by Justin McMinn to support vulnerable groups in Belfast. Over time, the organization grew and began to include refugees in its programs. Today, Street NI offers not only football training but also language courses, food and clothing assistance, gym access, and volunteer opportunities.
Justin says one of the best parts of his job is seeing how football brings people together and helps them overcome the challenges of living in a new country.
© UNHCR/E. Testa
Justin McMinn, founder of Street NI.
"The most remarkable thing about Street Soccer and the power of football is its ability to unite communities," he says. "At first, we worked with Protestant and Catholic communities, building bridges and combating sectarian hatred. And in recent years, we've begun to include refugees—now we're breaking down barriers, fighting racism, and bringing people together."
"Football is a common language," Justin adds. "Even if you don't speak English, you can still understand others on the field."
Many program participants later become volunteers. For example, Louise, who joined Street Soccer when she was homeless, now helps the initiative almost daily.
"I do a little bit of everything," she says. "It really helps my mental state. I feel useful."
Louise recalls how Mary's English rapidly improved after starting the lessons, and then she began helping the new refugees adapt. Mary became an indispensable member of the team, both on and off the field.
In 2022, Louise and Mary traveled together to Dundee, Scotland, to participate in the Homeless World Cup, a football championship for the homeless.
"For me, we're all one," says Louise. "When you come to Street Soccer, no one judges you—everyone supports each other."
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(Left to right): Justin McMinn, Louise McGonnell, Mary Edonga and Andy Hardy.
The Irish Football Association, which also supported Mary, invited her to speak at its conference. The association implements projects that combine football training with long-term integration support: employment programs, coaching qualification courses, and internships.
"It really helps refugees integrate into the local community and find work," explains Andy Hardy, Community Engagement Officer for the Irish Football Association. "They learn, they develop, and it shows on their CVs."
In May 2021, UEFA and the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) signed a cooperation agreement to promote the social inclusion of refugees through football. Initiatives include financial support for national football associations across Europe, the participation of refugees in UEFA Fan Fests, and the Unity EURO Cup, an international tournament featuring mixed amateur teams composed of refugees and local players.
In October 2024, Mary took part in the Unity EURO Cup panel discussion at UEFA headquarters in Switzerland, along with UN High Commissioner for Refugees Filippo Grandi and UEFA Vice-President Laura McAllister.
During the discussion, Mary spoke about how football and the people who supported her through various community programs changed her life. She later admitted that participating in this event was one of her greatest achievements.
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“At first I was scared, but when I saw the video of the event, I felt proud and happy,” she says.
The Northern Ireland team took a respectable third place in the 2024 Unity EURO Cup tournament, while the Latvian team emerged victorious.
Mary met participants from all over Europe and other parts of the world. She came to the tournament with her friend Vinta, whom she met through football. Now they communicate every day.
"We support each other, inspire each other, share secrets. Football gives me friends who become family," explains Mary.
Reflecting on her journey—from a lonely girl unsure of where to start to a confident student with a close circle of friends—Mary speaks of hope and unity: “It was really, really hard. I was scared. But thanks to football, I overcame it all.”
Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source. It represents an accurate account of the source's assertions and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.