Women from Myanmar find joy in soccer in Thailand

In Thailand, women who fled Myanmar due to the ongoing civil war have found refuge and empowerment through soccer. The military coup in Myanmar in 2021 has made it difficult for foreign journalists to report from the country, prompting a focus on the experiences of exiles in border towns like Mae Sot. A nonprofit organization, PlayOnside, has been instrumental in this effort, helping to establish the first women's soccer league in Mae Sot. The league, organized by Daen Kajeechiwa, aims to empower Burmese women migrants through sports, providing them with a sense of community and joy amidst their struggles. The inaugural practices for the league began in July, marking a significant step in promoting women's participation in sports and fostering resilience among these women.