In a world where talent is often hidden in the shadows of non-recognition and insignificance, initiatives like the Talanta Hela serve as rays of hope, guiding talented people from underprivileged backgrounds to national and international acclaims.

The story of Vihiga Bullets’ offensive striker Emily Morang’a perfectly captures the transformative power of the initiative whose aim is to identify, nurture, and monetize talents from the grassroots level upwards.  

Through this initiative, Morang’a not only found her voice but also emerged as a shining star, captivating people with her unmatched talent.

During the inaugural Talanta Hela U19 football tournament played in 2023, Morang’a turned up for Kisumu County, propelling them to the final stage where they went down 2-1 to Busia County after a spirited fight. She was a student at Nyakach Girls High School.

Kisumu County received Ksh3 million for their dazzling performance. Each player went home Ksh80,000 richer.

In addition to the monetary benefits, Morang’a received a call-up to join Vihiga Queens, an opportunity she described as ‘life-changing.’

Today, the youngster is one of the best performers in the team. She made her debut in the team on a high, scoring four goals that led the team to their heartwarming win against Wadadia FC.

“I didn’t know that I could play up to this level. It is by God’s grace and the commitment that have been having also motivation from my high school coach, teachers and my fellow players,” the audibly excited youngster said.

She extended her heartfelt gratitude to Cabinet Secretary incharge of Youth Affairs, Creative Economy and Sports Hon. Ababu Namwamba for being the brainchild behind the Talanta Hela initiative, noting that it was crucial in turning around the lives of talented people like her.

“The Talanta Hela initiative has opened many doors time. It has enabled me to get to Vihiga Queens as well as get invaluable skills from professional coaches like coach Jackline Juma. Through the initiative, our future is bright,” she started.

The youngster who aims at playing for international teams like Chelsea ladies called on her fellow players to be self-driven and disciplined in their careers, and not to be swayed by the challenges.

“My advice to my fellow football players is that, first be God-fearing, be disciplined and also be self-driven, be focused. Do not let challenges spoil your future because challenges are there and you must overcome them. Opportunities are there let’s expose our talents and we will go far,” she concluded.

According to her coach Boniface Nyamunyamu, Morang’a is a star in the making. The tactician praised her as one of the best strikers in the team, backing her to dominate in the future.

“She is a young talented player. We depend on her as a team, bearing in mind that we lost many of our strikers. We will not pile pressure on her, but we need her to work hard. She is still young, and if given enough time to play, she will go far,” Nyamunyamu concluded.

Emily Morang’a Fact File

Age: 18
Date of birth: 22/02/2006
Weight: 59
Height: 5’4