Ismael’s story is one of resilience and determination. Born to a Senegalese father and a Cameroonian mother, Ismael left Senegal ten years ago, driven by his passion for football and hope for better opportunities.

His journey took him through various countries in Africa and the Middle East before he arrived in Kosovo*. Despite facing numerous challenges along the way, he never lost sight of his dream: “I left because football is my whole life. I want to be a professional footballer, and, one day, I will be.”

The prospect of playing for a local football team initially seemed promising. However, the reality was quite different.

Ismael traveled to Kosovo* with the promise of a football contract, arranged by a relation met along the way. Ismael paid 3,000 euros and sent his passport, believing this opportunity would open doors to Europe. However, upon arrival, the promised contract never materialized. Ismael found himself without a place to stay, stripped of his passport and money. To survive, he took on construction jobs, but his lack of official documents made his situation incredibly challenging.

Ismael’s strength stood out as he faced these challenges. He embarked on a perilous journey through the Western Balkans, often sleeping in forests. Despite being detained and having his phone confiscated, he continued on foot, alone, until he reached Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Throughout his hardships, football remained his lifeline: “When I’m playing, everything else fades away.” In Niger, he played whenever he could, and in Bosnia and Herzegovina, he found a supportive community that enabled him to attend training sessions every Sunday. This support provided Ismael with a sense of normalcy and hope: “I want to show my skills here. I would like to stay because Bosnia and Herzegovina is a beautiful country and everyone has a good heart. I love going to Sarajevo, and when I walk around, everyone is amazed to see me.” Surely, anyone meeting Ismael on the street couldn't help but be captivated by his appearance. At two meters tall, Ismael's appearance may lead you into assuming he's a basketball player. However, on the field it's his feet that are his greatest strength, as football is his true passion.

© Majda Balić/IOM Bosnia and Herzegovina, 2024

Ismael’s journey underscores the need for sustainable solutions and safe migration pathways. Many like him embark on dangerous routes due to lack of opportunities and the hope for a better future, facing exploitation and violence along the way. Establishing regular migration pathways is crucial to protect migrants’ rights and harness the potential of migration for a brighter future.

Ismael dreams of becoming a professional footballer, not by walking through dangerous terrains but by regular means: “I would like to go to Western Europe, not by walking, but as a player.”

His message to others is one of patience and caution: "Be patient. Patience pays off. Don't rely on hearsay. Understand the reality before leaving your country. It's true that life is not easy in Africa, but you need to ask yourself a lot of questions before leaving your country. I wouldn't do it again today. Every morning when I wake up, I look at the sky, I cry, I am in pain. But that's life. I want to succeed".

Ismael's journey, filled with trials and hopes, underscores the importance of regular migration pathways. His dream remains alive, and with the right support, he can achieve it, paving the way for others to follow.

Written by François Lhoumeau

*References to Kosovo shall be understood to be in the context of United Nations Security Council resolution 1244 (1999).