Welcome to An Englishman in the Balkans, the podcast where I,share my experiences of life in Bosnia and Herzegovina as a British expat.
Join me as I explore the culture, history, food, and everyday life in this fascinating country. From hidden travel gems and local traditions to expat life insights, each episode offers a first-hand perspective on what itโs like to live, travel, and immerse yourself in the Balkans.
Whether youโre curious about Bosnia, planning a visit, or considering moving abroad, this podcast is your guide to discovering the authentic side of the region, through engaging stories, interviews, and personal reflections.
Tackling Boundaries with Rugby - One Womanโs Mission in the Balkans
One of the real joys of living in this region is meeting extraordinary people doing extraordinary things. Recently, I had the pleasure of talking with Bronwyn Jones, a woman from the Bronx whoโs now transforming lives through rugby in Kosovo.
From New York to the Balkans
Bronwynโs journey is anything but typical. Sheโs lived in the Balkans for nearly two decades, working on youth, gender, and minority rights.
But itโs her sports venture that really caught my attention. Introducing womenโs rugby to Kosovo, a country where less than 10% of women and girls engage in sports.
More Than Just a Game
For Bronwyn, rugby isnโt just a sport, itโs a way to challenge cultural norms and bring people together.
โRugby is about support and protection,โ
That message resonates strongly in a society still rebuilding from conflict and division.
On the pitch, girls from different ethnic backgrounds come together, forging friendships that often donโt happen in Kosovoโs still-segregated school system.
Breaking Barriers, Building Confidence
What really struck me was how rugbyโs novelty works in its favour.
With no long-standing gender expectations tied to the sport in Kosovo, thereโs more room for girls to claim it as their own.
Even finding basic equipment like rugby balls is a challenge, but Bronwyn pushes forward with passion and purpose.
A Movement Thatโs Growing
Bronwyn funds the project through grants and donations, but her dream is sustainability, training local women to lead and coach.
Sheโs also eyeing international partnerships and regional tournaments.
Talking to Bronwyn reminded me how powerful grassroots change can be.
Her story isnโt just about rugby. Itโs about hope, unity, and reimagining whatโs possible.
If this story speaks to you, do consider supporting her efforts.
How to Financially Support Kosovo- Revolution Rugby
The button below is where Revolution Rugb accepts donations.
Just note Assist Kosovo-Revolution Rugby on the reference and its also tax free:
Follow Womenโs Rugby in Kosovo on Social Media":
Also our socials are on instagram
https://www.instagram.com/@revolution_rugby
https://instagram.com/prishtina_jets_ rugb
https://instagram.com/Klina _Valkyries_rugb
https://www.instagram.com/Mitrovica_Dragons_rugby/
Also on Youtube: https://youtube.com@revolutionrugbykosovo
Thank you for tuning in to An Englishman in the Balkans.
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๐ Iโd also love to hear from you!
Feel free to reach out with any questions, feedback, or ideas for future episodes.
You can send comments, thoughts and suggestions to: questions@anenglishmaninthebalkans.com I reply to every mail!
Until next time, take care, and as always, Hvala for listening.
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