For Asmar Kaffer, the new vice chairperson of Young Brazilians FC, football is more than just a game – it’s a platform for transformation. 

Stepping into her role with passion and purpose 

Kaffer sees her appointment as a chance to shape the lives of young men far beyond the pitch.  

“As a youth worker and as someone who is invested in community development, this is an opportunity that I have welcomed and delved into with zeal and excitement. Being part of Young Brazilians means being part of the development of young men, not only in sport but also in their education, social development, and the building of community,” she said.  

She expressed these sentiments in response to how she feels about being selected as the club’s vice chairperson. She was recently appointed as one of the management team members, which also includes Mitchell Veldskoen as a fellow vice chairperson and Adelbertus Jaar as chairman.  

In a recent interview, Kaffer said she feels excited to be part of the new leadership, as it brings new challenges that she is eager to embrace. She added that her experience in youth work and development would be used to nurture the players at the club.  

Local clubs have often faced financial difficulties, and speaking on her long-term goals for the team, she said her plan is to establish a sustainable financial model. This approach involves addressing the club’s current financial woes, and outlining strategies for revenue generation, cost management and potential partnerships.  

“Together with my chairman and our hardworking and dedicated technical team, I wish to further boost our team’s performance by setting specific performance targets that foster a competitive spirit while playing the game with love, good sportsmanship, and having fun,” she said.  

“I’d like to establish a strong brand identity, developing a clear vision and mission for the club that resonates with our players, our lovely and lively fans, and our entire //Kharas community. Young Brazilians are currently financially crippled, so, with our financial manager, I’d like to create a sustainable financial model to ensure the club’s financial health,” she added.  

The Karasburg outfit finished 11th in the standings last season. However, their highlight was reaching the NFA Cup final this year, where they finished as runners-up after losing to defending champions African Stars.  

Kaffer has assured fans that one of her core goals for this season is to steer the team into a top four league finish.  

“This season, we want to see ourselves being the champions. If not, we’re definitely making the top four. Increased skills development and investment in the mental health of our players are priorities for me. I’d also like to see an enhanced match-day experience for our fans. Our 12th player is just as important as the guys on the playing field,” she said. 

Meanwhile, Young Brazilians head coach Galiel Pelwan shared their zeal to do well this upcoming season despite a very disappointing 2023/24 season. 

He told Nampa last week that beefed up the team after they acquired new players from across the border, and hope this will bring about change and silverware at the end of the season. 

“As a coach, the target is to be in the top four. Anything between one and four will be good, and of course, winning the league will be a bonus. We would want to forget about the PstBet Cup success we had earlier this year, and refocus.

“We have two new South African players I am sure they will add value to the team. We will have more players to add to the team, but we are still in negotiations with their clubs,” added Pelwan.

  – mkambukwe@nepc.com.na