FIFA Council Member
Isha Johansen
Pioneering leader in international football governance, first West African woman elected to the FIFA Council, and former President of the Sierra Leone Football Association.
Pioneering leader in international football governance, first West African woman elected to the FIFA Council, and former President of the Sierra Leone Football Association.
A trailblazing leader who has broken barriers and created pathways for women in sports governance worldwide.
First West African woman elected to FIFA's governing body
Led Sierra Leone Football Association from 2013-2021
Founded Pink Charity Fund and Women of Excellence Awards
Born as Isha Tejan-Cole in Freetown, Sierra Leone, on December 25, 1965, Isha Johansen has become one of the most influential figures in international football governance. Her journey from a young girl watching football matches with her father to becoming the first West African woman on the FIFA Council is a testament to her determination, vision, and leadership excellence.
Educated at a convent school in Freeport and later at a boarding school in Yeovil, England, Johansen's early exposure to football came through her family's deep involvement in the sport. Her father co-founded East End Lions F.C. in Freetown, instilling in her a lifelong passion for the beautiful game.
In 2004, she founded F.C. Johansen with a noble mission: to provide guidance and opportunities to children whose lives had been disrupted by the Sierra Leone Civil War. This initiative demonstrated her commitment to using football as a tool for social development and healing.
Recognition from global leaders and organizations
"Isha's leadership in football governance has been transformational. Her vision for inclusive sports development is inspiring."
"A pioneering voice for women in sports. Isha's work with youth development through football is remarkable."
"Isha's commitment to using sports for social development and post-conflict recovery is truly admirable."
A journey of breaking barriers and creating lasting change
Elected as the first West African woman to join FIFA's 37-member governing body, defeating Burundian Lydia Nsekera by 28 votes to four during the CAF General Assembly.
Led transformational change in Sierra Leone football, launching initiatives like Powerplay to encourage women's participation and establishing the annual African International Youth Tournament.
Became the first woman publisher in Sierra Leone's history, producing Razure Magazine and later serving as contributing editor to Ovation magazine.
Book Isha for your next event or interview
Breaking barriers and creating pathways for women
Using football for youth development and post-conflict recovery
Building transparent, accountable organizations
Creating opportunities through strategic development
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Professional photos available for download
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Discover Isha's inspiring journey and leadership insights
An inspiring memoir chronicling Isha Johansen's groundbreaking journey from founding a football club in post-conflict Sierra Leone to becoming the first West African woman on the FIFA Council.
Also available in audiobook format
Ready to connect? Reach out for speaking engagements, interviews, or collaborations
contact@ishajohansen.com
For general questions and information
speaking@ishajohansen.com
For keynotes, panels, and interviews
media@ishajohansen.com
For press, interviews, and media kits
Sierra Leone Office
Freetown, Sierra Leone
UK Office
Chelsea, London
