Loza Abera has made history as the first Ethiopian footballer to sign a professional contract with a club in the United States. She has joined DC Power, based in Washington, D.C., which competes in the Division One of the U.S. Women's Soccer pyramid.
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Abera’s journey has taken her from Ethiopia to Malta and Sweden, marked by determination, hard work, and resilience, especially in a country where, for many years, professional women's football was not widely recognized.
She began her career playing barefoot alongside boys in her village, as opportunities for girls in the sport were scarce during her childhood.
Her success has become a catalyst for the growth of women's football in Ethiopia. Abera believes that her move to the United States will not only pave the way for more women footballers to advance their careers but also inspire young girls from Addis to Hawassa to pursue the sport.
Born in Durame City, Abera began playing at a young age and signed her first professional contract with Hawassa Kenema. She then played for Dedebit, Adama City, and Commercial Bank of Ethiopia at the domestic level. Recognized as a pioneer of women’s football in Ethiopia, she later had opportunities to play in Sweden and Malta before returning to her former club, Commercial Bank, prior to her move to the U.S.
Abera, who has just turned 27, spoke to Telecomasia.net on her move to the United States, and what it means to women footballers in her country and the continent.
– You have become the first Ethiopian woman to play professional football in the USA. How much does this mean for you?
– Becoming the first Ethiopian woman to play professional football in the USA is incredibly meaningful to me. It is not only a personal achievement, but also a source of inspiration for young girls in Ethiopia and beyond. I've faced numerous challenges along the way, from limited resources to intense competition. Each hurdle has made me stronger and more determined to succeed.
This journey has required significant sacrifices, like time away from my family, my husband and friends, but every moment has been worth it to pursue my passion for football. I'm proud to break barriers and I hope to pave the way for others to follow their dreams in sports.
– You have been in the United States for a while and had different try-outs. What was the feeling after finally landing a pro contract with DC?
– I feel incredibly excited and grateful. Signing with this club is a dream come true, and it's a fantastic opportunity for me to grow as a player. I’m eager to contribute to the team and connect with my new teammates. This is the next step in my journey, and I can't wait to get started.
– Looking back at your journey, and the challenges you have faced, did you ever believe you would get this far?
– There were times when it felt like a distant dream, but I always held onto my passion for football. My journey has been filled with challenges, but each step has strengthened my resolve. I believed in my potential and the support of my family and community kept me going. Now that I’m here, it feels surreal, but it also motivates me to keep pushing forward.
– You have had different stints in Sweden and Malta. How did this prepare you for the big break in your career?
– My times in Sweden and Malta were transformative. In Sweden, I experienced a high level of professionalism and strong support for women's football. The training facilities and coaching staff were exceptional, which helped me grow as a player.
In Malta, I enjoyed the vibrant football culture and the opportunity to connect with local communities. Each stint enriched my understanding of the game and deepened my love for football.
– Your career was really tough at the start, especially at a time when women football was not considered huge in Ethiopia. How did you manage to persevere and push on?
– The early days of my career in Ethiopia were undoubtedly tough. Women's football faced significant challenges and lacked recognition. However, my passion for the game kept me motivated. I found strength in the support of my family, teammates and coaches, who believed in our potential.
I also focused on setting personal goals and improving my skills, which fueled my determination to succeed despite the obstacles.
– How much of an encouragement do you think this is to young girls in Ethiopia, seeing you play at such a high level?
– I believe my journey serves as a powerful encouragement for young girls in Ethiopia. Seeing me compete at a high level can inspire them to pursue their dreams, regardless of the challenges they face. I want them to know that with dedication and hard work, anything is possible. I hope to open doors for future generations and help change perceptions around women's football in our country.
– What is your dream and ambition with DC Power?
– My dream with DC Power is to help elevate the team to new heights. I aspire to contribute both on and off the pitch, fostering a strong team culture and inspiring my teammates. My ambition is to win championships and create a legacy that showcases the potential of women's football in our community.
– Do you see yourself eventually playing in the WSL?
– Playing in the Women’s Super League is definitely a goal of mine. I believe it’s one of the most competitive leagues in the world, and the opportunity to compete at that level would be a dream come true. I’m focused on developing my skills and performing well with DC Power.
– Back in Ethiopia, do you have initiatives to encourage more girls to play football?
– Yes, back in Ethiopia, I plan to be involved in initiatives aiming at encouraging more girls to play football. Additionally, I share my experiences to inspire young girls to pursue their dreams in sports. It’s important for them to see role models and understand that they can succeed in football, just like I have.
– Your former club CBE qualified for the CAF Women’s Champions League for the first time. What do you think this means for Ethiopian women’s football?
– CBE qualifying for the CAF Women’s Champions League is a monumental achievement for Ethiopian women’s football. It signifies that we are making strides on the continental stage and gaining recognition.
This milestone can inspire young girls and women across the country to pursue football seriously, knowing that there are opportunities for success at higher levels. It also highlights the potential of our league and the hard work they put in as well as talent we have in Ethiopia.
– What is your dream for the national team?
– My dream for the national team is to compete consistently at international tournaments and make a mark on the global stage. I envision us qualifying for the African Women’s Cup and showcasing our skills and resilience.
I want our team to be a source of pride for the nation and to inspire future generations of female footballers in Ethiopia.
– Finally, a word of encouragement to women footballers in Ethiopia and Africa?
– To all the women footballers in Ethiopia and Africa, I want to say, keep believing in yourselves and your dreams. The journey may be challenging, but every step you take brings you closer to your goals. Work hard, support each other, and never underestimate your potential.
You have the power to change the narrative for women in sports. Your passion and dedication can pave the way for future generations. Keep pushing forward.
