By Ebrima Mbaye
At just 17 years old, Nfamara Jaiteh’s journey from the streets of Wellingara, The Gambia, to the football pitches of Italy is a testament to resilience, determination, and the power of familial support. As he prepares to represent the Umbria region in the prestigious Torneo delle Regioni in Sicily from April 11th to 18th, his story serves as an inspiration to aspiring athletes everywhere.
A Perilous Journey
Nfamara’s path to Italy was fraught with challenges. The treacherous journey that many undertake in search of better opportunities is often marred by tragedy. Aware of the countless lives lost along the way, Nfamara considers himself fortunate to have arrived safely. His gratitude is evident as he reflects on his experiences, acknowledging the hardships endured and the friends left behind.
Overcoming Initial Hurdles
Upon his arrival in Italy, Nfamara faced immediate obstacles. The first six to seven months were particularly tough, as he lacked the necessary documentation to train with any team. This hiatus from the sport he loved was compounded by language barriers that made communication with coaches and teammates challenging. However, Nfamara’s unwavering spirit saw him through these trying times.
Family Support: A Brother’s Influence
Central to Nfamara’s motivation is his elder brother, Ebrima Jaiteh, a coach at Falcons FC and a respected sports administrator in The Gambia. Ebrima’s unwavering belief in Nfamara’s potential has been a cornerstone of his journey. “My brother Ebrima keeps motivating me, pushing me to work harder,” Nfamara shares. Ebrima’s own experiences in the football world have provided invaluable guidance, instilling in Nfamara the discipline and dedication required to succeed.
Seizing Opportunities
The turning point came when Nfamara crossed paths with Ansumana Suboy Kassama, the CEO of Ask_agency1. Ansumana, who had his own experiences as an immigrant footballer in Italy, recognized the potential in young talents like Nfamara. Determined to provide opportunities that he once lacked, Ansumana organized trials to showcase these talents to scouts and agents.
In May 2024, during a significant trial event in Rome attended by numerous sporting directors, Nfamara’s skills stood out. Ansumana facilitated a two-day trial with Terni FC, during which Nfamara’s prowess on the field impressed the club’s management. This led to his inclusion in both the U-17 and U-19 squads of Terni FC, where he quickly became a regular and standout performer.
A Dream Realized
Nfamara’s dedication and hard work culminated in his selection to represent Umbria in the Torneo delle Regioni. Being the youngest player in the regional squad, this achievement underscores his exceptional talent and determination. For Nfamara, this opportunity is not just a personal milestone but also a chance to honor his roots and the arduous journey that brought him here.
“Every time I step onto the pitch, I remember where I came from and the challenges I’ve overcome. This motivates me to push harder and aim higher,” he shares.
Looking Ahead
The upcoming tournament in Sicily is more than just a competition for Nfamara. With scouts from Serie A, Serie B, and Serie C in attendance, it presents a potential gateway to professional football—a dream he shares with many young players from The Gambia.
Ansumana remains optimistic about Nfamara’s future, noting his focus and readiness to seize this opportunity. Through Ask_agency1, Ansumana continues to pave the way for young talents, ensuring they have the support and platforms needed to succeed.
Nfamara’s journey from Wellingara to the football fields of Italy exemplifies the power of perseverance, the importance of seizing opportunities, and the impact of mentorship and family support. As he stands on the cusp of a promising career, his story serves as a beacon of hope for many aspiring footballers back home.
