‘Kicking Through Barriers’, a talk focusing on East and Southeast Asian representation in football, was hosted by the National Football Musuem as part of their ongoing Football Voices Festival on Thursday 24 April.
Representatives on the panel included: Alan Lau – Founder and Director at the Frank Soo Foundation, Community Champion and EDI Communities of Practice Ambassador for the FA, and Community Coach at Watford FC’s Community Sports & Education Trust, Amazin LeThi – Former competitive bodybuilder and the only Asian LGBTQ athlete in history with ten international sports ambassador roles, Lawrence Lok – National Coach Development Lead (D&I) at The Football Association, and Wai Wan – Women and Girls Development Coordinator at the Aston Villa Foundation
The conversation focused on the importance of Asian representation in football, including the important story of Frank Soo, the first player of Chinese origin to play in the English Football League, and a 2024 addition to the National Football Museum’s Hall of Fame.
The talk also included a manifesto workshop, lunch and networking opportunities. Following the event guests were also given the option to partake in a tour around the museum itself.
This was the second meeting of the ESEA Leaders in Sport, following its inaugural event at Wembley earlier in the year.
Speaking about the event, Tim Desmond, CEO of the National Football Museum said, “Kicking through barriers is all about exploring and celebrating diversity across football in every sense, from the players on the pitch to the supporters in the stands. Football is for everyone to enjoy, and this panel concentrates on a key – often underrepresented – audience. East and South East Asia has gifted the world with footballing wizards such as Tottenham’s Son Heung-Min and United’s Park Ji-Sung, it’s time that we open the conversation and give them the recognition and representation they deserve.”
Amazin LeThi LGBTQ Global Advocate & Athlete, said: “The National Football Museum’s support for Asian athletes marks a vital step in breaking down barriers and elevating underrepresented voices in sports.
“With this panel, we’re not only recognizing the achievements of Asian athletes but also amplifying the intersectional experiences of those who are both Asian and LGBTQ in football. Representation in these spaces is essential for the next generation to feel seen and celebrated for who they truly are.”
Alan Lau, Founder of the Frank Soo Foundation added: “This is an incredible opportunity to share Frank Soo’s legacy and raise awareness of the struggles and triumphs of East Asians in football. Importantly, the talk also enables us to discuss the unique qualities our community brings to the game.”