British Tamil footballer Lucindha Lawson represents England in Tokyo

When British Tamil athlete Lucindha Lawson pulls on her jersey, be it for England or Great Britain, she carries more than a nation on her back — she carries the weight of resilience, and hope for the deaf community.

Born and raised in London to Sri Lankan Tamil parents, Lucindha is one of the few South Asian women representing in football. She plays for England’s Deaf Women’s Futsal team and Great Britain’s Deaf Women’s Football team, making her a powerful role model — especially those living with disabilities.

Her story is one of courage and quiet strength.

Lucindha was born deaf, and as a child, her parents struggled to accept her condition. At the age of seven, she entered foster care alongside her brother Wishu, who she remained close to until his tragic passing in 2016. Losing him to suicide was life-shattering, but it also deepened her resolve to live fully and use her platform to inspire others.

In recent years, Lucindha was diagnosed with Long QT Syndrome, a rare inherited heart condition that increases the risk of cardiac arrest. Yet, in the face of adversity, she continues to train, compete, and represent her country with unstoppable spirit.

Pictured above, Lucindha featured in the Lioness England Kit Launch

This month, Lucindha is competing in her fourth Deaflympics, taking place in Tokyo, Japan, from November 15th to 26th. The Deaflympics — which have been running for a century — organised by the International Olympic Committee, gives deaf athletes the chance to compete at an elite level.

But unlike Olympians and Paralympians, Deaflympians receive no government or national lottery funding. Every athlete must raise thousands of pounds to cover training, kit, and travel — an unfair burden that often keeps talented players from pursuing their dreams. For deaf athletes, these challenges are multiplied. There’s little awareness and limited funding.

A recent interview on BBC London has helped raise the awareness of the athletes struggle to raise £4,000 each. The charity UK deaf sports loans the money, which the athletes must replay. She would be required to pay back the sum it spends or face being barred from future events.

“I would have to make a repayment plan and pay it out of my own pocket, which really I shouldn’t have to do,” she said.

“I’m representing my country so it’s really disappointing.”

If Lucindha’s story inspires you — please consider donating or sharing this story with your network. Whether you own a business, or just want to show support, every act of generosity helps Lucindha  in supporting her ongoing journey on the world stage.

Fundraiser donation link;

https://www.peoplesfundraising.com/fundraising/lucindha-lawson?