“We were unsure of what to anticipate, uncertain of our roles and the extent of our involvement. Upon arrival, the revelation that we would not only be part of the narrative but also entrusted with significant roles was truly astonishing. The experience was nothing short of extraordinary. The initial fittings for costumes, the introduction to director Thea Sharrock, as well as meeting the cast and crew, left us both overwhelmed and exhilarated.
“Appreciating the dedication invested in The Beautiful Game and witnessing the courage and determination to proceed with filming post the Covid-19 pandemic, seemed in perfect harmony with the bold and fearless essence of the Homeless World Cup event.
“The entire journey felt like a surreal family reunion of the Homeless World Cup, transpiring in a unique location halfway across the globe. Spending five weeks with individuals with whom we shared a profound connection, immersing ourselves in the realm of costumes, and reminiscing about our respective Homeless World Cup memories and encounters – it was a momentous occasion that I am privileged to have been a part of. Each day, we would express our disbelief – how did this come to be? Are we genuinely participating in this, in Rome, alongside actors in a genuine movie centered around the Homeless World Cup?
“It was akin to reliving the essence of another Homeless World Cup. I fervently hope that the world will witness this enchanting event unfold on the silver screen and join the Homeless World Cup community in supporting the commendable efforts of the Homeless World Cup Foundation, SSUSA, and numerous other dedicated individuals.”
Lisa Wrightsman, left, celebrates with Sienna Jackson, center right, and Elizabeth Kin after the team’s victory over Sweden at the Homeless World Cup 2023, in Sacramento. Image: AP Photo/Godofredo A. Vasquez
Raph Aziz, England
Originally hailing from France, Raph Aziz represented England in Mexico back in 2018, despite his experiences of homelessness primarily occurring in his adopted nation following his arrival in London in 2011.
Upon his arrival, Aziz encountered the theft of his passport, leaving him with limited options. He found support through the youth homelessness charity New Horizon Youth Centre, which enabled him to overcome homelessness.
Aziz reflects on his journey to Mexico as a pivotal moment in his personal development. Presently, he has come full circle and is imparting football coaching to young individuals at New Horizon, facilitated by the West Ham Foundation’s sponsorship of his coaching qualification. In addition to coaching the men’s team FC Hope and the women’s team FC Faith, he serves as a key figure in aiding them through the intricacies of London’s homelessness system.
“The experience of participating in the Homeless World Cup presented me with numerous opportunities to cultivate core values, foster community growth, and unlock latent potential and confidence within me, subsequently leaving a profound impact on my life,” shared Aziz.
“I am deeply passionate about assuming the role of a community leader. I often encourage my mentees to aspire to inspire. By exemplifying my fervor, I am confident that they will embrace it and pass it on to others.”
Aziz acknowledges that without the intervention of the Homeless World Cup, his life would have taken a starkly different trajectory, emphasizing the transformative potential of initiatives like The Beautiful Game in fostering positive change.
“In the absence of the Homeless World Cup’s influence,” Aziz reflects, “I would have likely found myself resorting to expedient solutions, devoid of prospects, steering away from long-term commitments. My narrative would have been starkly different, and I wouldn’t have recognized the person I am today.”
Lisa Gornell, England
In her extensive 11-year journey with the Homeless World Cup, Lisa Gornell has traversed various roles since her initial captaincy of the England women’s team in Poznan, Poland. Subsequently, she transitioned to a coaching position in Chile, followed by volunteering stints in Oslo and Cardiff. This multifaceted engagement stands as a testament to the profound impact the HWC has had on this lifelong Liverpool enthusiast and ardent football aficionado.
A period of traumatic bereavement led Gornell down a path of addiction, culminating in her residing in a hostel where her nurturing demeanor earned her the moniker ‘football mum,’ reflecting her maternal instincts despite being separated from her daughter.
“For many years, I existed within a bubble of addiction, grappling with homelessness and residing in a hostel,” shared Gornell, 44. “Football has always been my solace, a realm where I feel truly myself, embraced by a community that shares my passion. Previously, I harbored a sense of isolation, perceiving the world as antagonistic towards me.”
Her participation in the Homeless World Cup shattered this sense of isolation, offering a sense of belonging and camaraderie that transcended societal barriers.
Today, community-centric initiatives occupy the forefront of Gornell’s endeavors. Engaged in coaching, volunteering, and mentoring at Liverpool Homeless FC, alongside diverse roles with organizations like Keep Britain Tidy, she embodies a spirit of service and empowerment.
Gornell envisions The Beautiful Game as a platform to challenge prevalent stereotypes surrounding homelessness, fostering understanding and empathy among viewers.
“The experience was truly enriching,” expressed Gornell. “It evoked a myriad of emotions, from joyous memories to poignant reflections, encapsulating the essence of camaraderie and shared experiences.”
Sarah Frohwein, Wales
Image: Phillip Griffiths
Sarah Frohwein’s narrative at the Homeless World Cup oscillates between heroism and adversity, transitioning from player in Oslo 2017 to referee in subsequent editions held in Cardiff and Sacramento.
Frohwein found herself residing in her mother-in-law’s abode with her partner and infant amidst housing challenges, eventually seeking refuge in Street Football Wales. While prior engagements with Port Talbot’s women’s team had waned, a transformative journey awaited her following her foray into street football.
The Homeless World Cup served as a catalyst for Frohwein, instilling a newfound sense of purpose and resilience during a period marked by personal struggles.
“Participating in the Homeless World Cup breathed new life into me, offering hope and a renewed sense of purpose during a challenging phase marked by miscarriages and emotional turmoil,” shared Frohwein, 33. “It provided a beacon of light, reigniting my belief in the possibilities life held.”
Her experience in Oslo proved transformative, elevating her self-perception and instilling a sense of significance. Embracing the role of a referee in Cardiff, initially met with trepidation, ultimately broadened her understanding of the game and her place within it.
Presently, Frohwein, a mother of two, serves as an events coordinator for a charity supporting individuals grappling with mental health and substance abuse issues, leveraging her experiences to effect positive change.
“Volunteering has not only enriched my personal journey but also bolstered my professional profile, underscoring the unifying power of football,” reflected Frohwein. “Football, in its essence, transcends boundaries, uniting individuals from diverse backgrounds.”
This article is extracted from The Big Issue magazine, dedicated to empowering homeless, long-term unemployed, and marginalized individuals by providing opportunities for earning. To show your support, consider purchasing a copy of The Big Issue! If you are unable to access a physical copy, you can still subscribe to The Big Issue or gift a subscription to a loved one.