Abel Zenebe, a centre-back anchoring the defence for United 4 Communities (U4C), hails from Ethiopia. He fled his homeland alone, escaping civil conflict, and made a perilous journey through France before crossing the English Channel to seek asylum in the UK. In December 2023, he arrived in Rotherham, determined to rebuild his life.

His first year in Britain was marked by hardship. In the summer of 2024, rioters set fire to a hotel housing asylum seekers in Rotherham. The attack left Abel shaken. Fearing for his safety, he stayed indoors for two weeks, overwhelmed by fear and distrust. “Mentally, it impacted me negatively. I was scared for my life,” he recalled. “I just sat at home. I wasn’t going out because I was scared of the people here.”

Abel’s turning point came through the U4C football team. The project uses football as a universal language to bridge cultural divides, foster integration, and promote social cohesion among refugees, asylum seekers, and local residents. After the attack, coaches initially paused training but soon resumed sessions, offering reassurance and support. “They were always with us, supporting us,” Abel said.

Football became Abel’s lifeline. Living just five minutes from the training ground, he began attending regularly. On the pitch, he found more than just a game—he found friendship, community, and joy. “I met all of my friends here,” he shared. “It’s nice to come and enjoy being with the team.” He especially values the inclusive atmosphere, where backgrounds and languages fade away in the shared love of the sport. “Football communicates to everyone,” he said. “We’re like a family.”

Now granted residency, Abel is building a future filled with hope. He’s studying for his GCSEs and plans to pursue a degree in accountancy. His involvement with U4C has been instrumental in restoring his confidence and well-being, helping him reconnect with the wider community. He dreams of a stable, fulfilling life in Britain—driven by his academic goals and his passion for football.

The impact of U4C on Abel’s life goes far beyond the pitch. The friendships he’s formed and the experiences he’s gained have transformed his outlook. Football has given him purpose, structure, and a sense of belonging—countering the isolation that so often affects asylum seekers. “When you have nothing, you can come here for fun,” Abel said. “It’s positive, and you see new people every week.”

Abel’s journey is a powerful testament to the transformative power of sport. His resilience, combined with the unwavering support of the U4C community, shows how inclusion and compassion can change lives.

Abel Zenebe: Finding hope and belonging through football

Abel Zenebe: Finding hope and belonging through football