Vivianne Miedema new War Child ambassador

Being there for children

“If I hadn’t chosen to play professional soccer, I would have ended up working with children,” says Vivianne. “As a professional soccer player I have a position where I can support children who are having a tough time. I am delighted to take on this responsibility.”

Vivianne believes in the power of sport and play to strengthen children’s resilience and make them stronger than war. Among other roles, she will be the face of War Child Holland’s sponsored run to stimulate schoolchildren across the Netherlands to raise funds for us while being active.

Dealing with fear

War Child helps children affected by violence and armed conflict to feel like a child again by providing them with structured activities. Through sports and games, children are provided with emotional support and a much-needed sense of stability. The activities supports them to build the resilience they need to deal with sources of stress such as bullying, anger and fear. This helps to reduce the likelihood of children developing long-term psychosocial issues - and referral mechanisms are in place for children in need of specialist support.

Topscorer

Vivianne Miedema (23) debuted in the senior Netherlands women’s national football team in 2013. She has scored more goals at international level for the Netherlands than any other player, resulting in her becoming the all-time top scorer of the Dutch team. In 2017, Miedema signed with Arsenal, playing in the Women's Super League in England, having previously played for SC Heerenveen and Bayern Munich. She won the Professional Footballers' Association Player of the Year award for 2018/19.

We are delighted to have Vivianne on board. As a top sportsperson and strong young woman, she will be an international role model for many children!