QUMBU- In a bid to provide opportunities for young girls in rural areas, Hoseya Jubase founded the Jubase Youth Academy(JYA) in 2019. The academy based in UMthatha aims to empower girls through football while also addressing social issues such as teenage pregnancy.
Jubase a resident from Nontyankashe location in Qumbu and a qualified coach who holds a Confederation of African Football(CAF) D Coaching Licence, was motivated to start the academy after witnessing the limited opportunities available to girls in rural areas.
“The OR Tambo region is mostly rural with high unemployment rates and teenage pregnancy, I wanted to create a safe space where girls can release stress through football and have a platform to discuss their challenges,” he explained.
The academy not only focuses on football skills but also emphasizes the importance of communication, discipline and education. Jubase works closely with the girls to encourage communication with their parents.
Furthermore, despite facing numerous challenges including financial constraints Jubase remains committed to his vision, “As a self-funded initiative we struggle to secure sponsorships there have been times when I’ve had to dig into my own pocket to purchase uniforms or pay school fees for some of the girls who come from disadvantaged backgrounds,” he said.
In addition, the academy has formed a partnership with Isonge Social Change Non Governmental Organization(NGO), which provides support. Despite facing transport challenges, the JYA continues to produce talented young footballers with several players already making a name for themselves in regional and national competitions.
Jubase revealed that he has to use his own money to transport the soccer players as he does not want to burden the parents with additional expenses.
“I approach parents personally to request permission to include their children in the program and I also engage with local leaders such as chiefs and councillors,” he explained.
The academy has six players currently competing in the Eastern Cape Sasol League. “They signed a contract for one season, if she is available for the next season, they will sign again,” Jubase said.
One of the academies’ standout players is 15-year-old Esam Gqumshe who was scouted by Ayakha Stars and is now part of the under-17 South African squad known as Bantwana.
Gqumshe is set to play against Gabon on 18 January 2025 at the Lucas Moripe Stadium in Pretoria.
Jubase’s vision for the academy is to provide opportunities for young girls from rural areas to develop their football skills, he remains committed to his goal and is hopeful that a benefactor will come forward to assist with transportation costs.
The JYA has expanded its reach with a new branch opening in Gxulu under Nyandeni Local Municipality.
As the academy continues to grow Jubase hopes to expand his reach and empower more young girls through the beautiful game.
Photograph: supplied
