More Than Medals | Tiwa Lys Fraîche Melong — The Young Leader Scoring Beyond the Net

In the quiet town of Melong-Bangang, nestled in Cameroon’s West Region, a young girl once chased footballs across dusty compounds with her brothers. Her laughter echoed between the hills, her feet unafraid of the red earth. That girl was Tiwa Lys Fraîche Melong, a child whose dreams began with a simple love scoring goals.

“I started playing football since a young age with my brothers in the neighbourhood, and I loved scoring goals,” she says. “That love never left me.”

A Dream that Found Its Direction

Encouraged by her family, Tiwa joined a local club and from that moment, football stopped being just a game. “My brothers and parents encouraged me to start playing. I joined a local club and never looked back.”

Her dedication quickly set her apart. At just 17, she became top scorer in the Guinness Super League, netting more than twenty goals in one season  a remarkable feat for someone still in her teens. Her sharp instincts and determination earned her the title of Revelation of the Year at the Cameroon Ballon d’Or ceremony.

“I was shocked,” she admits. “Still shocked. It’s an honour to be recognized amongst great footballers.”

When Dreams Wear Green and Red

The first time she was called to represent Cameroon’s U17 national team, Tiwa’s heart raced with pride and disbelief.
“I felt good nervous but excited. It was a dream come true.”

Today, she continues to play with purpose, balancing ambition and discipline. “A normal day includes morning runs, strength training and technical drills. We also work on tactics and team strategy,” she explains.

Yet, like many young athletes, she faces challenges. “My first challenge is limited resources and good infrastructure. But we are working hard to change that.”

Leadership in Motion

Tiwa doesn’t just dream of scoring goals  she dreams of changing lives through football.
“I hope to win major tournaments, break records and inspire more girls to play football,” she says with conviction.

To her, leadership isn’t about titles or age. “Leadership means setting an example, being accountable and inspiring others. I am still learning, but I’m committed to being a positive influence.”

And her message to every young girl watching from the sidelines?
“Believe in yourself, work hard and never give up. Football is for everyone.”

The Future Is Already Here

From Melong-Bangang to the world stage, Tiwa Lys Fraîche Melong stands as a symbol of what’s possible when passion meets purpose. Her story is one of persistence, promise, and the quiet power of a girl who believed she could  and did.

Because medals shine for a moment.
But leadership that lasts forever.

This story is part of the “More Than Medals” series by journalist Esther Otto, celebrating Cameroonian sportswomen whose leadership transcends victory, redefining what it means to lead in sport and beyond.