Returning from the FIFA U17 Women’s World Cup has been a life-changing experience for Kenya’s U17 midfielder Susan Akoth.
However, the newfound recognition has also brought unexpected challenges and risks to Korogocho, one of Nairobi’s densely populated neighbourhoods. The midfielder has noticed changes in how her family, friends, and community view her since her return; not all of it has been positive.
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“After coming back from the World Cup, I felt like some sort of VIP at home,” says Akoth. “Before, my mom would ask me where I was going or tell me to do chores. Now, she doesn’t scold me, and I don’t have to do as much around the house.”
But it hasn’t just been her family’s treatment of her that has changed; her friendships have also shifted. Friends who used to visit her regularly now seem reluctant, even avoiding her.
“I asked why they don’t come around, and I was told they’re afraid of me now like I’m someone else,” she adds.
For Akoth, the new dynamic has been puzzling, even a bit isolating. This change isn’t just social; it’s also a matter of security. Being from Korogocho, Akoth’s family has become concerned about her safety. Community members assume she came back with money after participating in such a prestigious tournament and as a precaution, her family has arranged for her to stay with an aunt for a while.
Mildred Cheche, the head coach of the Rising Starlets, explains that this experience is unfortunately common for young players coming from international competitions.
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“Many people in the community have high expectations from the girls coming from the World Cup. Most of them think they have a lot of money which is not the case because when they see you shaking hands with the President, they expect that from the State House, you are coming out with money whether you live in Korogocho or Runda it doesn’t matter it’s a challenge,” Cheche said.
“They don’t realise these are still young girls, not millionaires. It’s difficult when they come from areas like Korogocho, where some people may even want to snatch their phones, ask them or their families for money.”
For players from lower-income neighbourhoods, safety concerns go beyond simple misunderstandings. In Akoth’s case, some community members may try to take anything they perceive as valuable, such as a jersey with her name on it, just to have a piece of what they think is her newfound fame. According to Cheche, families worry that Akoth’s presence could attract theft or harassment, given the false assumptions about her financial situation.
“People think they’re set for life just because they’ve been seen with influential figures. It’s not safe for them in some communities right now and that’s why for players like Susan she has to stay away for some time before she comes back,” Cheche added.
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“Even for a child, there’s this expectation that they’re now somehow obligated to give back to the community not just financially but either they might be asked for jerseys or even boots,” she added.
To manage these challenges, Cheche and her team keep in close contact with both the players and their families, offering advice and support. They talk with parents and help the girls find ways to stay safe and grounded as they navigate this new reality. For those still in school, the environment tends to offer some protection, but for others, like Akoth, the path to balancing fame and safety is more complex.
For Akoth and many young athletes like her, the journey doesn’t end at the World Cup; it’s a lifelong balancing act between pursuing their dreams and staying connected to their roots. Coach Cheche and the Junior Starlets are determined to support these girls, guiding them through the challenges of fame and helping them adapt to the realities of their changing world.
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