Breaking Free: Rita’s Journey to Empowerment

As Rita Mungoma entered the important stage of adolescence, the financial demands of young adulthood turned her life into a rollercoaster ride of relentless labor and exhaustion. She got a job for a security company in Lusaka, Zambia to earn money, but endured punishing hours – sometimes working from 8 a.m. until the early hours of the next day, often without rest for days or even weeks on end. 

The packed schedule left her physically drained and emotionally shattered. “I was overworked and abused, both physically and mentally,” Rita said. “There was no time for rest, no time for friends, no time even to go to church.” 

The ceaseless grind took a severe toll on Rita’s mental health. She suffered from chronic stress and fatigue. At one point, the exhaustion landed her in the hospital.

Throughout this time, however, the love for soccer that Rita had developed from a young age remained strong. Despite the demands of her work schedule and her exhaustion, she joined a local soccer team, which also happened to participate in Grassroot Soccer programs. Joining the team and gaining access to Grassroot Soccer’s soccer-based health curriculum, along with the support of a mentor Coach, would prove to be a pivotal turn in Rita’s life.

Rita instantly found herself engaged in Grassroot Soccer’s sessions that used the sport she loved. Through the program, Grassroot Soccer introduced to her a world of empowerment and self-awareness she had never known before, and she developed a newfound confidence that began to reshape her life. 

“Grassroot Soccer taught us about our rights, how to have confidence, and how to recognize and stand up against abuse.” Rita said. 

One of the most significant changes Rita experienced was in her communication skills, and the confidence to use them. Previously shy and reserved, she now found herself able to express her thoughts and feelings openly. 

“I used to be the kind of person who stayed home all day because I didn’t feel comfortable around people.” she admitted. “But now I can stand up for myself, communicate my needs, and confidently say [what I need to] when necessary.”

Rita also credits the health education she received through Grassroot Soccer for helping transform her life. “I was taught about sexual health, [girls’] rights, and the power we have to make informed decisions about our bodies,” she said. 

This knowledge gave Rita the strength to set boundaries and prioritize her well-being.

With a newfound sense of self respect and the confidence to advocate for herself, Rita made the difficult but brave decision to quit her exploitative job. Leaving the job was daunting, especially with the financial implications, but Rita is confident it was the right choice for her well-being. She credits Grassroot Soccer for providing her with the support system, tools, and confidence to make that leap – and reclaim her life as her own.

 “It felt like the right choice,” she said. “I’ve learned to value myself, my health, and mental well-being above all else.”