Q1: Honey, as a former footballer player, first captain of the Palestinian team and Champion for Peace, what does the Socrates Award represent to you?
The Socrates Award embodies the true spirit of football. It’s not just about what happens on the pitch, but what players, men and women, do with their influence off the field. For me, it represents the pivotal role of Champions to influence communities and foster a culture of Peace. I am very proud to be a Champion for Peace and represent Peace and Sport, the organization that created this award in partnership with the Ballon d’Or and L’Équipe.
Q2: Why do you think it’s important to recognize footballers for their social and humanitarian work?
Footballers have a unique platform, reaching millions of fans worldwide. By recognizing their social and humanitarian efforts, we highlight the importance of using that influence for good. It shows that being a great player is about more than scoring goals—it’s about inspiring others, advocating for peace, and making the world a better place. The Socrates Award shines a spotlight on one player but encourages others to follow their lead.
Q3: In your experience, how can football promote peace and social inclusion?
Football is a universal language. It brings people together across cultures, religions, and backgrounds. In my own journey, I’ve seen how the game can break down barriers and create opportunities for dialogue, education, and empowerment. Whether it’s through grassroots projects or global campaigns, football can be a force for peace. Initiatives that focus on gender equality, refugees, or youth development are just a few examples of how the sport can drive transformation.
Q4: The Socrates Award is named after Socrates, the Brazilian footballer known for his activism. How does his legacy resonate with today’s footballers?
Socrates was more than just a brilliant player—he was a leader who fought for democracy and social justice, both on and off the pitch. His legacy is a reminder that footballers can be agents of change. Today’s athletes have even more tools at their disposal, from social media to global networks, allowing them to amplify their voice and influence. The Socrates Award is a way of continuing his mission.
Q5: Can you give us an example of a footballer whose work off the field has truly inspired you?
Another footballer who has made a significant impact off the field is Marta Vieira da Silva, commonly known as Marta. Beyond her legendary status as one of the greatest female footballers of all time, Marta has been a powerful advocate for women’s rights and gender equality in sports. She consistently speaks out about the need for greater investment in women’s football and encourages young girls to pursue their dreams despite societal challenges. Marta’s commitment to breaking barriers for women in sport, especially in a country like Brazil where football is deeply rooted in male dominance, makes her an inspiring figure both on and off the pitch.
Q6: The Socrates Award also aims to encourage more players to get involved in social causes. What advice would you give to young footballers looking to make an impact off the pitch?
My advice is simple: nothing is possible alone; coalitions are key. Being part of the Champions for Peace Club has shown me how important it is to share commitment and be inspired by experts to create a greater impact, also never underestimate the power of your voice. Whether you’re a star player or just starting your career, you have the ability to influence and inspire others, being it in your neighborhood, your region, your country or internationally.
Q7: Finally, what are your hopes for the future of the Socrates Award and the role of football in social change?
I hope the Socrates Award continues to grow in prestige and inspires more players to take action. As for football’s role in social change and peace, I believe we’ve only scratched the surface. Beyond athletes themselves, sporting stakeholders also have a key role to play to amplify football’s role in social change. It is essential to provide dedicated trainings for athletes alongside their sporting careers, and especially in their youth. In doing so, they become aware about the impact they can have and are equipped to take an active role as changemakers if they so wish. With the right support from organizations expert in this area such Peace and Sport, and by providing athletes with platforms for action and expression, football can continue to break down barriers and build a more inclusive and peaceful world.
L’article Honey Thaljieh: empowering change through sport ahead of the Ballon D’Or Ceremony and the Socrates Award est apparu en premier sur Peace and Sport.
