Ashenafi Girma, a prominent Ethiopian soccer player and former captain of the Ethiopian national team, recently shared his inspiring journey in an interview with renowned talk show host Seifu Fantahun. The interview highlighted Ashenafi’s illustrious career, personal challenges, and his ongoing commitment to nurturing young talent in Toronto.
Reflecting on his early days, Ashenafi recounted his humble beginnings in Ethiopian soccer, where his passion and determination propelled him to stardom. He played for the Ethiopian Coffee Club and eventually captained the national team during the World Cup qualifiers. “It was a dream come true to represent my country on the world stage,” he said, recalling his pride in wearing the Ethiopian jersey.
During the interview, Ashenafi emphasized the importance of discipline, sharing how his strong work ethic and help from God, helped him overcome personal challenges, including quitting alcohol and avoiding counterproductive behaviors. His message to young people was clear: “Discipline and focus are the keys to success, both on and off the field.”
Eight years ago, Ashenafi moved to Canada, where he has since become a licensed soccer coach. He founded the Ashenafi Soccer Academy in Toronto, a platform dedicated to training and mentoring young players. “Youth development should be our focus,” he told Seifu, expressing his plans to continue contributing to the growth of young talent through his academy.
Married with four children, Ashenafi is currently visiting Ethiopia, reconnecting with his roots and supporters. He expressed gratitude to his fans for warm reception at the Airport and the Ethiopian and Eritrean communities in Toronto for their unwavering support. “Thank you every one for your support “ he said.
As Ashenafi looks to the future, his vision remains clear: to inspire the next generation of soccer stars while promoting the values of discipline and perseverance. His journey serves as a testament to the power of hard work and the enduring impact of giving back to the community.
