South African FIFA referee Akhona Makalima has highlighted the challenges female referees face, stating that despite their competence, they are often judged based on their gender rather than their performance on the field.
Speaking to Soccer Laduma at the "Women Who Make Moves In Sports" seminar in Sandton, Johannesburg, Makalima emphasized the need for fair judgment and recognition of female match officials.
READ: Mayo: Why I Chose Belouizdad Challenge
She pointed out that while female referees deliver excellent officiating, they are frequently subjected to biased evaluations simply because they are women. However, she encouraged young women aspiring to become referees to embrace the challenge and not be deterred by societal prejudices.
"It is hard because if you are a female, especially in a place which has men you have to prove yourself all the time. There are doubts that women can do this and that is on the field of play from both supporters and even clubs as well. They believe that our place is in the kitchen. That this game is for men. But the good thing is that we have support from SAFA, the regions and other referees make it easy and help us believe in ourselves," Makalima observed.
READ: SuperSport Discuss Bhasera's Future
Makalima further stated that people often don't judge female referees on their knowledge and skills in football.
"Most of the time people judge you as a woman. They say, 'what do you know about men's football?' But in these times we are living in there is no such thing to say 'this work is for men and this is for women'. We have to educate people not to look at us as women but to look at what we do on the field of play. Yes, there will be mistakes which we make here and there but what inspires me is that I learn from them. We learn every day. We make mistakes and learn from them. I could also encourage young girls who want to be referees or match officials to take up the challenge. Love themselves and respect the game, then play their part," Makalima concluded.
