FIFA MASTER ALUMNI - WHERE ARE THEY NOW? - HONEY THALJIEH
Honey Thaljieh
Current Position: Public Relations Manager at FIFA
Year of Graduation: 2012 (12th Edition)
Nationality: Palestinian
What does your current role involve?
As a Public Relations Manager at FIFA, my primary responsibility is to utilise football as a platform for social impact, diplomacy and inclusion. I develop and manage global partnerships that leverage the sport to promote positive social change, foster dialogue and create opportunities for marginalized and underserved communities—especially in remote regions.
My role involves engaging with governments, international organizations, NGOs and academic institutions to align FIFA’s global initiatives with its mission of uniting the world through football. I focus on promoting values such as equality, dignity and empowerment—particularly for women and youth—through the transformative power of football.
Additionally, I host educational visits and events at FIFA’s headquarters, where I interact with hundreds of students worldwide, sharing FIFA’s initiatives and inspiring the next generation of football leaders. Overall, my work combines strategic communication, stakeholder engagement and advocacy to harness the power of football for positive societal impact.
How has the FIFA Master helped you in your career?
The FIFA Master didn’t just open doors — it gave me the keys to walk through them with purpose and confidence. Coming from Palestine, where opportunities were scarce and obstacles immense, the FIFA Master provided me with global exposure, academic excellence and a profound appreciation for the power of sport beyond the pitch. It taught me how to think critically, act globally and lead with empathy.
The network, cultural immersion and friendships I gained have been life changing. The FIFA Master gave me a voice — and the confidence to use it — in spaces where people like me are often underrepresented. It helped me challenge the status quo and believe that I could lead change at the highest levels of sport.
What advice would you give to future students?
Be open. Be curious. And above all, be authentic. The FIFA Master is more than an academic journey — it’s a personal transformation. Use this time not only to learn, but to understand who you are and what kind of impact you want to make in the world through sport. Our background is not a limitation — it’s your greatest strength. Whether you come from a war-torn region or a football powerhouse, your story matters. Share it. Own it. Learn from others and embrace the diversity around you — that’s where the real education happens.
Stay grounded, and never let others define or limit you. I was often told what I couldn’t do, but I chose to believe in what I could become. I grew up believing the sky is the limit — not the walls, restrictions, or stereotypes others may impose. Believe in yourself, your experiences and your unique voice. Fight for your dreams and remember: you are more than what others expect of you. You are what you decide to be.
FIFA Master - International Master in Management, Law and Humanities of Sport, ranked Europe's No.1 course a record 12 times by SportBusiness.
FIFA Master - 25 years of Excellence in Sport Business Education - organised by CIES in partnership with De Montfort University (UK), SDA Bocconi School of Management (Italy) and the University of Neuchâtel (Switzerland)
