From Atlanta, down to Lagos, back to Montego Bay - a new photography series by Black Arrow takes you around the globe to spotlight how the black experience embodies the culture of soccer.  See through the lens of dope black photographers who expertly capture how our brothers and sisters develop their own unique relationship with the beautiful game and witness the variety of experiences that unfold.  Each story is made up of a sequence of snapshots that thrusts us into the day-to-day lives of real ones from underrepresented communities around the world. 

“World at Her Feet”

Photographer : Obidinma Nnebe

Location: Lagos, Nigeria

Subject: Blessing - Age 16

As all of the attention is on superstar (male) players with big contracts and fancy cars. The first project in our new photo series takes us to Lagos, Nigeria, where we are fortunate to get a glimpse into the day-to-day life of a 16-year old named "Blessing”.

For those hustling to “make it” in a competition that is truly global, the hard work and dedication on the field is actually the therapeutic part of the game.  What really builds character is the daily crossroads and life decisions she has to make at a very young age on whether or not to pursue a life as a baller.  We’re reminded that young women all over the world love the game just as much as their male counterparts, and the sacrifice is even greater when you consider the glass ceiling hovering over the women's game. 

Project #001

DAY ONE: “HARD WORK”

In Nigeria, the opportunity to go pro is one in a million, and for the life of a baller, “hard work” comes in many different forms. Physical, emotional, academic, even domestic. Putting in work also means upholding commitments to family and friends, coaches and teammates.

DAY TWO: “SWAG”

win, lose or draw, if you are a baller in this country you better have swag.

Say no more. #Naija

DAY THREE: “GAME DAY”

After weeks of training, traveling, thinking, hoping, and praying, game day finally arrives and now Blessing only has 90 minutes to prove herself.

Trying to forge a career out of such short increments of time is a daunting task, but what drives her, and so many others like her around the world, is the pure love of the game and the character it builds