Shaliya’s story in the world of Maldives’ futsal is not just about sports; it’s a vivid narrative of passion, challenges and the relentless spirit of a woman who dared to redefine the norms. From her humble beginnings in H.Dh. Neykurendhoo to becoming the (former) captain of the national women's football team and widely celebrated as the queen of futsal, her journey is a beacon of inspiration and  resilience.

“I’ve played since I can remember,” Shaliya began, her voice echoing the deep-rooted love for the game. From an early age, Shaliya broke away from traditional paths. While girls were generally nudged towards netball or athletics, Shaliya found her calling in football, playing alongside the boys, often the only girl in the midst. Her path to professional football was marked by a turning point at the age of 16, when she was selected for the national football team. Shaliya reflected, “I always liked the challenge. Back then, girls playing football was not as common, it was a different world, but I felt like I was born to do this.”

The switch from football to futsal wasn’t just a change in sports; it was an adaptation to an environment that offered more consistent opportunities for women. Futsal, with its regular tournaments, support for women’s futsal and competitive spirit, provided a new arena for Shaliya to showcase her skills. This transition, however, did not come without its own set of challenges; it was marked by challenges that many girls in the Maldives face - limited access to sports facilities, societal pressures and stark gender disparities, having to navigate a sports world that is largely dominated by men. “Even getting the ground to play was difficult,” Shaliya shared, highlighting a struggle many young girls in the islands still encounter. 

Yet, her resolve never wavered and the thought of giving up never crossed her mind. “You have no idea how much love I have for this game,” she asserts, reflecting on her journey. Even after becoming a mother, Shaliya’s dedication saw her returning to the field just three months postpartum. “But yes, I’ve struggled. I’ve taken breaks. When I first started out, I wasn’t even allowed to go outside to play. The pressure to fulfill multiple roles and responsibilities as a woman is immense,” she recounts. This period was a testament to her resilience, balancing the roles of an athlete and a mother, often under the critical gaze of societal norms, pressures and judgements.

Reflecting on the evolving sports scene in the Maldives, Shaliya notes significant changes. “In the past, and even now sometimes, the onlookers, often middle-aged men, would use horrible language. We faced a lot of negativity. But now, there’s definitely a lot more support. However, girls still struggle to get better access and inclusivity in sports, and there’s a disparity in prize money, sponsorships, pay and recognition compared to men’s sports. “You have to be at the top level to get recognized. Men are readily celebrated for their achievements, but for women, the journey to recognition is much harder.” she shared.
 

Shaliya recalls two defining matches that profoundly impacted her. The first, leading the national women's football team to a bronze medal in the 2019 South Asian Games as the team’s captain, was a fulfillment of a childhood promise to her parents and a moment of immense pride. The second, a high-pressure Club Maldives Cup game, where her team achieved an unprecedented feat of winning three years in a row (2018, 2019 and 2021), taught her the power of perseverance and teamwork.

Behind her achievements, is a network of support - From her family to the senior members of Maldives Ports Limited (MPL) - their encouragement and belief in her abilities played a significant role in her success. Particularly, she notes her coach Andhu; “he has been instrumental in my growth as an athlete.”

For young girls aspiring to pursue sports, Shaliya’s message is one of self-belief and resilience. “Never give up. Believe in yourself amidst the negatives. Keep trying, and you’ll achieve your goals. Go for it with all your heart. Let the white noises stay white; you color your picture any way you want.” Her advocacy extends to communities and institutions, calling for greater inclusion and equal treatment of women in sports, the establishment of more sports academies for girls, better media coverage and overall support for women’s sports.

Shaliya credits sports for much more than physical prowess; to her, it has been a teacher of life lessons - discipline, respect, adaptability and consistency. “It’s shaped who I am today,” she reflected, attributing her personal growth to her sporting experiences. 

Looking to the future, Shaliya aspires to dive into coaching, aiming to nurture the next generation of athletes and contribute to the growth of women’s sports in the Maldives. Shaliya’s journey, marked by dedication and resilience, stands as a testament to her strength and commitment, inspiring countless young women in the Maldives, and beyond. Her receipt of the national award in 2020 is not just an accolade, but a symbol of her indomitable spirit and unwavering dedication.

Shaliya’s story is not just her own; it’s a narrative that resonates with every girl battling societal norms to follow her passion. It mirrors the experience of many girls and women in sports, where each hurdle overcome is a step towards greater equality and recognition. Her story is a testament to the power of determination, and the spirit of never giving up, inspiring a new wave of women to chase their dreams with unwavering passion.

Follow her journey: @shaliya_thebest @fshakko