Ella-A modern day fairytale

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There are so many reasons I loved creating Ella: A Modern Day Fairytale.

Firstly because it was a real labour of love. From the first conversations with the FA, Disney & Nike about how we could reimagine an iconic story to highlight the barriers many girls face when trying to play football, to the incredible kindness of Alex Scott & Leah Williamson helping me turn a simple idea into a reality.

Secondly, because this was also a personal project. I have my own version of Ella, my daughter Emilia, who experienced a similar story but never gave up on her love for the sport. Helping me craft and edit the scenarios.

And lastly because it’s not often you get to work on a project like this. With a copy of the book going to every school in the country, a bespoke Instagram Bedtime stories post, 1 million social impressions and the amazing work FA and Disney are doing with the Shooting Stars project to change perceptions in the playground, I’ve seen with my own eyes what a difference it can make.

Sometimes wishes do come true.