Sylvia Makungu is a skilled footballer, currently playing as a forward for the Harambee Starlets and competing in the Austrian Women’s Football League with FC Wacker Innsbruck.
Her remarkable journey is nothing short of inspiring, considering she grew up in the Korogocho slums where she attended the Acakoro Football Academy.
The young female football prodigy landed a scholarship to play in Austria following her hard work, discipline and determination. Makungu noted that the opportunity came as a surprise after scouts spotted her talent and presented her with the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.
“It came as a surprise as I wasn’t sure if I would ever play for the big teams in Europe. Therefore, I was thrilled to have the chance to showcase my talent abroad,” she said.
Additionally, Sylvia Makungu made her senior international debut for the Harambee Starlets at a young age in 2020. Since then, she has consistently performed and earned a regular spot on the Kenyan national team.
”It is a good experience that makes me want to work hard every day to get more call-ups for my country,” she added.
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Her dream is to one day join the Manchester City Women’s Football team and play for them while simultaneously making an impact on women who’d like to pursue football.
Due to her busy football schedule with FC Wacker Innsbruck, Sylvia Makungu, who was scheduled to take her Kenyan national KCSE exams in 2023, had to miss them.
Now, with a break from her busy football career, Sylvia has decided to dedicate her free time to completing her secondary education in 2024. Additionally, she aims to inspire and contribute to the growth of women’s football in Kenya.
“Maisha yake, alipenda mpira zaidi. Hata akitoka Austria, huwa anaamka asubuhi na mapema anaenda mazoezini,” said her proud grandmother who raised Sylvia Makungu.