Iteka Youth meets Burundian Lions FC

On the 25th of November, members of Iteka Youth Organisation went to watch the Burundi Lions of Victoria take on DR Congo in a friendly match on the road to AFCON 2023.

It was great to witness the friendly competition between the two neighbouring countries. Burundian Lions did well in demonstrating the Iteka spirit with their 4-2 victory. 

We had the opportunity to interview two members of the team and find out more on what motivates them. Gervais Nkondogoro and Linosa Ishimwe spoke on behalf of the team.

“How was the soccer team formed?”

“ It was formed in 2019 by a group of four Burundian boys. The group participated in their first AFCON game in 2019” at Melton. Since then, we have just been playing.” Gervais 

What does representing Burundi mean to you?

“ Everything to be honest, seeing my family show up, my friends, playing with the team. Knowing that there are people watching. It is special playing for our country.” Gervais 

“ Playing for this team means a lot, you know. Being Burundian is great. It is very good to have your family and friends supporting you, it means a lot.” Linosa 

“What has been your proudest moment as a team?”

“ Probably our first AFCON. We reached the final, not only as we are trying to get back to that level but we are trying to win. That was our proudest moment, but there is an even prouder moment to come.”  Gervais 

“ Joining the team, and coming down from South Australia and playing with the boys. Playing with the boys is amazing. It’s been a proud moment and I wouldn’t play for any other team” Linosa 

“ Do you feel supported by the community? If not, what can we do to help you feel more supported?”

“ This is the most support we have had as of now. But I feel like we can get heaps more support. Especially looking at the other burundian teams in WA and SA. The support they get, if we were to get that much support we would definitely bring it home this year” Gervais 

“What message do you have for Burundian/ African youth?”

“ Stay away from trouble, focus on school and your goals. Make sure you have something that you want to achieve and become great. Because we have a lot of great youths that can play professional football.” Linosa 

“ It is not even just football, just in life in general. Do something with your life, whether it is football or anything that keeps your interest away from bad habits. Stay connected with the community.” Gervais 

It was a pleasure interviewing members of the Burundian Lions aka “ backflip nation”.

The most important takeaway from the interview was the need for more support from the wider Burundian community. In supporting Burundian Lions FC, as well as other Burundian organisations, we ensure that our young people have a sense of community and belonging as well as provide a source of inspiration for them to achieve even their most difficult goals. As Burundians there is nothing we cannot achieve if we stand united. 

We wish Burundian Lions FC all the best for AFCON 2023!

Written and edited by Chanceline Irakoze and Ornella Niyonzima