Breaking Barriers—#SheBelongs Program Empowers Young Women Through Soccer

A group of young women in Utah have come together to create something truly special through the #SheBelongs program, founded by Adam Miles, the executive director of Refugee Soccer.

“The idea was to form a team of refugee and non-refugee girls, and it's been so gratifying to hear multiple players still be friends now two years later, saying they wouldn't have met each other otherwise,” shared Adam. “The need for this is significant, but the opportunity to make a difference for girls, women and refugees is enormous."

This initiative not only gives girls the chance to play soccer but also, to experience a global event at the #SheBelongs 2025 Global Cup in Madrid, Spain, this June. The Utah team, consisting of 22 girls, is currently raising funds for the trip.

"I love being around other girls, making friends and learning about women empowerment,” said Liya Voityuk, originally from Ukraine. “It has been really meaningful to me, especially since life has been tough. In some places, there's a lot of stereotypical thinking that women should just clean and do the dishes."

Adam is passionate about breaking down barriers for the girls, saying, "Whatever I can do to help open doors for young women, I'm going to do."

The team is still working hard to raise enough money to travel to Spain and take part in the event. When FOX 13 Dream Team heard about their efforts, they jumped in to help. Mountain America’s Katie Ann Powell presented the team with new soccer equipment and $2,000 toward their fundraising goal.

To support the team's journey to Madrid, please visit https://shebelongs.org/donate.