Naomi Osaka’s Hana Kuma Releases Short Film about featured project GOALS Haiti. The film, ‘Foot Steps, captures the hope and excitement following the Haitian National Women’s team historic debut at the Women’s World up and what it means for the next generation. Watch it here - (7 minutes long).
“When I created Hana Kuma, it was to be able to create and elevate stories like these,” said Naomi Osaka. “It is incredible to watch this debutant team in the World Cup, but it’s even more amazing to know the power of what they’re inspiring back home. We wanted to change the narrative that surrounds Haiti and inject a story of hope, excitement, and belief. I have always celebrated my Haitian heritage and I cannot wait to watch this team continue to defy odds the rest of the ‘23 World Cup.”
The film documents the work of GOALS Haiti and their mission to advance youth leadership through soccer and education to create stronger and healthier communities in rural Haiti.
It is in these rural villages through GOALS Haiti that three current national team players (Betina Petit-Frere, Esthericove Joseph, Nahomie Ambroise) got their start playing soccer. And it’s where a new short film captures the life and pride that they and the World Cup bring to the girls back home watching.
For many of the program participants it is their dream to make it to the national teams and play on a bigger stage. “During my time with GOALS, I learned more than soccer because I went to their sessions on social and life skills. There are a lot of players who have a lot of talent that do not get this chance, and I am getting that chance to play in the World Cup. It is a huge opportunity. For other young girls watching me play, the message I would tell them is to focus on what you want and believe in your dreams. Do not listen to people who want to discourage you. Always believe in yourself and work hard for what you want.” – Betina Petit Frere
The story of this film is offering a fresh perspective of how this National team is creating a blueprint for the younger generation of Haitian girls to follow their dreams and aspirations and how GOALS Haiti is helping the next generation of young leaders on and off the field.