Watch: Honey Thaljieh on the Power of Football at the United Nations

FIFA Master alumna Honey Thaljieh delivered a powerful message about courage, belonging and the transformative power of football during the FIFA Master Alumni Association’s landmark event at the United Nations Headquarters in New York.

Invited by the FMA Committee, Honey addressed guests at a VIP reception co-hosted by the FMA, the United Nations Youth Office and the NO MORE Foundation on 17 July 2026.

The reception followed One World, One Game, One Goal – Football as a Catalyst for Youth Mental Health and Well-Being, an event in which the FMA played a leading organisational role. It brought together representatives from sport, diplomacy, business and civil society ahead of the FIFA World Cup 2026™ Final.

Born and raised in Bethlehem, Honey grew up challenging expectations and breaking barriers simply to play the game she loved. She went on to co-found the Palestinian Women’s National Football Team and become its first captain.

A graduate of the 12th edition of the FIFA Master, Honey has since used football as a platform to advocate for inclusion, equality and opportunities for young people around the world.

In her address, she reflects on how football gave her a community, a sense of belonging and the courage to overcome adversity. Her message goes far beyond the game: every young person deserves the opportunity not only to play, but also to belong, to be heard and to realise their potential.

Her words also resonated with the reception’s focus on preventing violence against women and girls through football. Looking ahead to the FIFA Women’s World Cup Brazil 2027™, the evening invited the global football community to help promote equality, healthy relationships, safeguarding and a world free from gender-based violence.

The FIFA Master Alumni Association is proud to share Honey’s address in full.

Watch the video below

Read more about the FMA’s historic event at the United Nations Headquarters.