She says: "As someone with Cerebral Palsy, and as a female coach, it can be hard to find opportunities, but now I feel like I belong.
"This bursary will help me massively within my coaching and will help me to get to that next level. I want to be able to advocate for more female coaches, as we matter too.
"I have a strong passion to help those who want to grow within the football community, especially girls, and one day I want to set up my own girls’ club."
The initiative offers funding for coaches like Ellie to take the FA’s Introduction to Coaching Course or the UEFA C Coaching Course, aiming to break down the financial barriers that can often stop people from pursuing their dreams.
It’s part of a wider three-year partnership with McDonald’s Fun Football, aimed at creating more inclusive pathways and a more diverse and accessible coaching community that reflects the players and communities we’re working to support.
The bursaries are particularly focused on supporting women, people from ethnic minority communities, and those with disabilities.
For many of the recipients, the opportunity has already had a huge impact and has the potential to change lives in the future too.
Farhiya Ali, another bursary recipient, is just beginning her coaching journey and already feels empowered by the opportunity.
"I’ve always had a passion for football, and having two young boys who love the game has only deepened my interest," she said. "Growing up as a young Somali girl, I loved playing football, but I never saw anyone who looked like me.
"Now, through this bursary, I’m able to pursue coaching and inspire others who might feel the same way I did. This opportunity has given me the tools and confidence to begin my journey and hopefully encourage the next generation to follow their passion too."
