RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - A visit by players and coaches from German women's football club Hamburger Sport-Verein (HSV) is helping inspire a new generation of female footballers in eastern Indonesia, where sport is increasingly being used as a tool for empowerment and gender equality.

The German delegation traveled to So'e in South Timor Tengah (TTS) Regency, East Nusa Tenggara (NTT) Province, to train with local girls as part of a sports-based empowerment program organized by Plan Indonesia, Plan Germany, and HSV.

According to Plan Indonesia Program Director Ida Ngurah, football serves not only as a sport but also as a space where girls can develop leadership skills, self-confidence, and the courage to overcome social barriers.

“Football has the power to unite and inspire. For Plan Indonesia, it is also a space where girls can learn to lead, build confidence, and challenge gender norms that still limit them,” Ngurah said, on Wednesday, June 17, 2026, as quoted by Antara.

The program combines football training, discussions, and experience-sharing sessions designed to strengthen participants' skills while promoting gender equality. The girls learn football techniques, teamwork, leadership, and confidence-building regardless of gender.

HSV women’s team captain Pauline Machtens said she was impressed by the enthusiasm shown by the participants.

“It is an honor for us to share our experiences with girls in Indonesia, especially in East Nusa Tenggara. We see tremendous spirit in them. We hope they continue believing in themselves and dare to pursue their dreams, both on and off the field,” Machtens said.

She noted that many girls in the region possess strong football potential but often lack adequate facilities and opportunities to develop their talent.

As part of the visit, Machtens, in cooperation with Plan Germany, agreed to sponsor Agnes, a 13-year-old junior high school student from South Timor Tengah who participates in Plan Indonesia’s Girls Football 3.0 program.

“I hope she can pursue her dreams. I also spoke with her parents, who are very supportive,” Machtens added.

Agnes, whose team finished runner-up in a local football tournament earlier this year, said the experience motivated her to continue improving her game.

“I am very happy to train with football players from Germany. This experience has made me more confident and inspired me to keep practicing so that one day I can become a professional football player and make my region proud,” she said.

The initiative highlights how international sports partnerships can create opportunities for young girls in underserved communities while promoting inclusion, confidence, and future leadership through football. ***