From Nepal to Bhutan
Football is more than just a game for many; it’s a way of life, a dream that drives them forward, and a means of providing for their families. For Jenifer Rana Magar, Khusma Rai, and Susila Kumari Chaudhari, three talented women from Nepal, football has become their profession, their passion, and their source of strength. Now playing for Transport United FC in the ongoing National Women’s Championship in Bhutan, these women are not only representing their nation but also breaking barriers, as this is their first opportunity to play for an international club.
Each of these women started their football journey at a young age, driven by a deep love for the sport. Despite facing numerous challenges, they have turned their passion into a career. Football is not just about winning matches for them; it’s about survival, providing for their families, and proving to themselves and others that they can succeed in a field dominated by men. They’ve all represented Nepal in SAF and AFC matches, but this new chapter in Bhutan is a significant milestone in their careers.
We recently had the chance to sit down with these inspiring players from Nepal and hear about their personal stories, their love for football, and how the game has shaped their lives.
Jenifer Rana Magar: A Striker with a Purpose
Wearing jersey number 9, Jenifer Rana Magar began her football journey at the age of 15. Growing up in Kathmandu, Jenifer’s interest in the sport was ignited while she was still in school. She played for Kanakai Women’s Football Club and also became a part of the Social Welfare Sporting Club, a C-division club in Kathmandu. Now, at 20 years old, she plays as a striker, a position she evolved into after initially starting as a left winger.
At just 20, she has already represented her country in SAF U18 and AFC U20 tournaments.
Her inspiration comes from her mother, who not only encouraged her to take up sports but also taught her the importance of dedication and hard work. “My mother was a great influence on me. She always encouraged me to pursue sports, and through her, I learned that hard work pays off,” says Jenifer. Like many, she idolizes Lionel Messi, admiring his natural, free-flowing style of play.
“Playing for an international club is a huge step for me,” she said. “It’s not just about playing the game, but also about growing as an individual and challenging myself in new environments.“
Khusma Rai: Defending with Determination
For Khusma, football has always been a part of her life. Khusma began her football career at the age of 13. She first played for Parijhat Women’s Football Club and currently plays for Koshi Province Football Club, alongside Kanakai Women’s Football Club. At 21 years old, she has taken on a new role as a midfielder with Transport United FC.
Growing up as the only girl in her village who played football, she faced immense societal pressure and criticism. “People would talk behind my back when I came back from training. They didn’t understand why a girl would choose football instead of going abroad for work,” she recalls. Despite the challenges, her family stood by her, particularly her parents, who supported her dream. Her love for the game and admiration for players like Marcelo motivated her to push through the barriers. Today, at 21, she looks back with pride on her achievements and remains driven to continue proving herself on the field. Off the field, Khusma is a music lover, with Bartika Eam Rai being her favorite singer. “Music and football are similar for me—they both give me joy and help me focus on what really matters.”
Khusma’s journey in football began with a strong personal interest. “I started playing because I loved the game. There wasn’t a lot of encouragement for girls to pursue football back then, but I pushed through. Football taught me resilience.” As a defender by nature, transitioning into a midfielder role has been challenging, but Khusma sees it as an opportunity for growth. “Playing different positions helps you see the game differently. It’s made me a more well-rounded player.“
Susila Kumari Chaudhari: The Accidental Goalkeeper
Born in Kailali, on the far western side of Nepal, Susila’s football journey began when she was just 13. Initially playing as a winger and striker, she accidentally found herself in the goalkeeper’s position during a match where the team lacked a goalkeeper. She performed so well that her journey as a goalkeeper began there. Susila started playing football at the age of 13 while she was in class 7. Originally, she played as a winger and striker.
Susila comes from a traditional family, where her father and brother were against her playing football. They believed she should stay home and work in the village. However, her mother, a beacon of support, always gave her the permission she needed to play. Her elder sister, Pushpa Dhanwar, played a crucial role in encouraging her to chase her dreams.
“Being a goalkeeper wasn’t my first choice, but when I was asked to play the position, something clicked,” she shared. “I realized I had a talent for it, and now I can’t imagine playing any other role.”
At 22 years old, Susila’s goalkeeping skills are sharp, but she remains humble and eager to learn. “Every match teaches me something new. Goalkeeping is about focus and staying calm under pressure. I’m excited to continue growing as a player with Transport United FC.“
For these three women, the road to becoming professional football players wasn’t easy. Khusma, being the only girl in her village playing football, faced harsh judgment from her community. Many believed that as the eldest daughter, she should focus on household responsibilities or work abroad to support the family. However, her love for football and the unwavering support from her family pushed her to overcome those societal pressures. Jenifer, on the other hand, had the strong backing of her family, which allowed her to focus on her career, but still, the journey was not without its struggles. Susila’s battle was within her own home, where she had to convince her father and brother that football could be more than just a hobby—it could be her career.
Despite all these hurdles, football has become their livelihood. It’s not just a game for them—it’s how they support their families. Every match, every training session, and every challenge they overcome is driven by the desire to create a better life for their loved ones. “Football is how we maintain ourselves and support our families. What we earn goes back to our families, and that keeps us going,” they share. This determination to not only succeed for themselves but also to uplift their families is what makes their stories so powerful.
Their opportunity to play for Transport United FC in Bhutan came through the efforts of Suman Shrestha, a coach from Nepal who saw their potential. This marked the first time any of them had the chance to play for an international club, an experience that has been both challenging and rewarding. Playing on artificial turf has been a new challenge for them, as they are used to natural grounds in Nepal. Despite the adjustment, they have embraced the new environment, giving their best and pushing themselves to adapt.
The warm welcome they received from the team and the culture of Bhutan has made their transition smoother. “The club and the country have been so welcoming. The team has really made us feel like we belong,” they say.
“Football is our livelihood, and we know that to stay in the game, we must maintain our fitness and give our all in every match,” they emphasize.
Their message to aspiring footballers is simple yet profound: “Be passionate about whatever you dream of. Challenges will come in many forms, but don’t quit. Keep playing, work hard, and be adaptable.”
