Jawahir Roble, aged 29, has made history as the first Black, female, and hijab-wearing referee in the United Kingdom. Her remarkable achievement was recently recognized when she received an MBE (Member of the Order of the British Empire) in the 2023 New Year Honours list for her contributions to football.
Having grown up in Somalia, Jawahir Roble or “JJ” as she is known to her loved ones, developed a love for football by playing it with local boys in the streets. When her family moved to England as refugees when she was ten years old, football continued to play an important role in her life.
Although she didn’t pursue a career as a professional football player, Roble worked to make the sport more inclusive for everyone.
She began refereeing in 2012 and was acknowledged for her efforts in 2017 when the Football Association’s Respect Awards recognized her work with Football Beyond Borders, an educational charity that helps underprivileged children who are passionate about football remain engaged in school.
In recognition of her services to football, she was awarded an MBE in the 2023 New Year Honours list.
