The football community came together to pay tribute to the late Mama Sylvia Tejan-Cole, mother of Madam Isha Johansen, a renowned football administrator and FIFA Council Member. A memorial match was held in her honor, showcasing the power of football to unite people in times of sorrow.
The one-day football gala brought together four prominent clubs: FC Johansen, Old Edwardians, Bo Rangers, and East End Lions. The event demonstrated the impact of Madam Johansen’s mother on her life and achievements, serving as a testament to the values and support she received from her family.
The memorial match and service were a fitting tribute to Mama Sylvia Tejan-Cole, highlighting the importance of family and community in Madam Johansen’s life and work. The event also showcased Madam Johansen’s commitment to using football as a force for good, inspiring others through her passion and dedication.
The event aligns with Madam Johansen’s initiatives, such as the Mano River Union Football for Peace project, which aims to foster peace and solidarity among neighboring countries in the sub-region using football as a tool for sustainable peace. The football community’s outpouring of support is a testament to the power of football to unite people across cultures and borders.
The African Coaches Connect (ACC) joins the football community in paying tribute to Mama Sylvia Tejan-Cole, and in support and prayers to Madam Isha Johansen, and her entire family on Mama’s transition. As a keen supporter and accomplice of ACC, we offer our heartfelt prayers, wishes, and support to Madam Johansen and her family during this difficult time. May her mother’s memory be a blessing, and may she find comfort in the love and support of her family, friends, and the football community.
The ACC President, Eldred Sunju-Abbey on behalf of the ssociation extend his deepest condolences to Madam Isha Johansen and her family on the passing of her beloved mother.
“Madam Isha remains a very solid support and pillar to me, ACC and African Football and may Mama’s memory be a blessing, and may the family find strength in the love and support of the football community. Madam Isha’s tireless work in promoting football development and peace in Africa is a testament to her mother’s values and legacy. We stand in solidarity with her during this difficult time and pray for the repose of her Mama’s soul”, he said
The memorial match highlighted the significance of football in bringing people together, a theme that resonates deeply with Madam Johansen’s work. As a celebrated football administrator, she has been instrumental in promoting peace and unity through sports, particularly in the Mano River Union region.
Madam Johansen’s dedication to football development extends beyond her role in the FIFA Council. She founded F.C. Johansen, a football club that provides guidance and opportunities to children affected by conflict. Her initiatives, such as Powerplay, aim to encourage women and girls to participate in football, empowering them and promoting gender equality in sports.
In her work with FIFA and the Mano River Union, Madam Johansen continues to inspire others through her passion for football and commitment to using the sport as a force for good. The memorial match for her mother is a poignant reminder of the power of sports to transcend borders and bring people together in times of joy and sorrow.
