Becoming EOE
esther ope elias
about the founder
Born in 2005, Esther Elias grew up playing football in South-East London. At the age of 2, she suffered a tragic injury that later required a tibial alignment operation at 15. As one of 2 Black players in her U14 team, she often trained two age groups above, where the squad was predominantly Black. Unable to trial for academies due to living outside of catchment areas, she instead focused on developing her skills in other ways.
While wheelchair-bound for months after her operation aged 15, Esther completed her Level 1 Coaching qualification and, determined to stay involved in the game, began coaching at her secondary school while on crutches.
At 16, she launched Effort Over Environment in October 2022. Serving as the youngest member of the London FA Inclusion Advisory Group during the 2023/24 season she also completed her UEFA C License and Level 2 in Talent Identification while balancing her A Levels. Now fully recovered, Esther continues to walk her path with resilience and purpose as an academy coach at Nottingham Forest.
PREVIOUS WORKS.
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CHELSEA FC COMMUNITY CHAMPION
Esther Elias, Chelsea's community champion, leads the way in mental health advocacy and youth empowerment, fostering positive change beyond the pitch.
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BEYOND THE BOOT
This series shines a light on the lives of London’s female ballers beyond the pitch.
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WHO'S YOUR WHY?
Created by Esther Elias during her tenure as Equal Games Lead at London FA, this initiative highlights trailblazers throughout the EDI calendar.
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TALK MORE THAN FOOTBALL
Chelsea's 'Talk More Than Football' initiative champions mental health awareness, encouraging conversations that go beyond the pitch.
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NO MORE RED CAMPAIGN
Arsenal's 'No More Red' campaign stands against youth knife crime, promoting safe spaces and opportunities through football and mentorship.
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SOCCER AID 2024
Recognised as a Community Champion with Soccer Aid for her commitment to driving positive change and supporting local communities through football.
interested in having esther as a keynote speaker?
Available for keynotes at schools, universities, sports conferences, and corporate events, delivering powerful talks on diversity in football, youth empowerment, and breaking industry barriers. Esther brings firsthand experience and a dynamic approach to inspire the next generation and drive meaningful change.