Girls in Egypt box against violence and prejudice

"I won't stop until I'm a champion. The girls in Cairo learning to box seem determined and confident. Many of the girls in southern Cairo come from socially disadvantaged backgrounds. They often experience gender-based violence and are pressured to marry at a very young age—usually at the expense of their education and independence. Choosing boxing, a male-dominated sport in a traditional society, is tantamount to rebellion."

"I used to be quite timid, but now I have more self-confidence. The 17-year-old has been at the academy since 2023. She used to be bullied, partly because her skin is darker than most of the others, and she was also abused. Since Salma has started boxing, she has been left in peace by her bullies, who are now afraid of her. I feel unconditionally loved by my friends here."

"The Impact Academy offers the girls much more than just training. It is a safe space where they also receive psychological support. The idea for the academy's holistic approach came from Sally Hassona. The 49-year-old coach has a background in boxing herself. In 2017, Hassona founded the academy, where girls can train three times a week in a used boxing ring and with a few old sandbags."

The Impact Academy in Cairo offers boxing training and psychological support to approximately 25 girls and young women aged 12-23 from socially disadvantaged backgrounds. Many participants experience gender-based violence and pressure for early marriage. Founded in 2017 by coach Sally Hassona, the academy operates three times weekly with minimal resources. Boxing serves as both physical training and a transformative tool for building self-confidence and independence. Participants like Salma report increased confidence, freedom from bullying, and acceptance within the academy community. The holistic approach addresses psychological needs alongside athletic development, helping girls escape stigma and pursue education and autonomy in a traditional society.

Read at www.dw.com