In the alleys of Moroccan cities known for their lively squares, eight-year-old Asmaa Abouchi and her sister Sara, five years older, embody determination and perseverance in acrobatics. Their sporting journey began when Sara tried Taekwondo at age six. The two girls quickly proved their talent, which led to them being entrusted with an experienced coach, who runs the show The Artist. Broadcast six years ago, this program was intended to support the seeds of stars in the world of the circus.
In 2018, Sara decided to leave Taekwondo to devote herself entirely to acrobatics and the circus. Asmaa followed suit, three years later. Despite the lack of training centers specialized in this field in Morocco, the two natives of Fez were able to adapt, thanks to their passion for sport and the great support of their coach. Little Asmaa is indeed surprising, thanks to her ability to quickly learn movements. His father is proud of it, to the point of saying he is “surprised” by it.
A passion that rises above the roofs and streets
Despite the lack of suitable training facilities, the two girls decided not to limit themselves in their ambitions. They take advantage of every moment to practice on the terraces with simple equipment, which constitutes a daily challenge in itself. Sara says: “We often train in the street or on the roof terrace of the house. These are difficult conditions which expose us to an accident at any time.”
Having broken her shoulder last year, Asmaa is even more determined. Her father confides: “Despite her fall, she did not give up. She continued to train as if nothing had happened.” The little girl said innocently: “Last year I had a broken shoulder. The bone was visible.” Despite the falls and injuries, she did not give up, even when injured. The sport became an integral part of his life, his father said.
Sometimes, while waiting for a red light, the two sisters perform little acrobatic shows in front of motorists and pedestrians, spreading joy in the crowd. Their father makes sure to stop the cars, giving them the opportunity to perform their demonstrations for a few minutes.
The two girls’ performances were not limited to the streets. They were also performed in different Moroccan cities. The girls performed in front of cafes and in public squares, which allowed them to gain popularity. But the path has not always been easy. The pair had to face some objections from local authorities. Sara says: “Even though we sometimes feel frustrated by difficult situations, we don’t give up because we love what we do.”
Their father, who accompanies them every step of the way, confirms that the encouragement of the public is the greatest motivation: “The interaction and enthusiasm of people makes us believe that what we do is worth everything. Efforts and challenges.”
Although sport takes up most of the girls’ days, sometimes to the detriment of their studies, their ambition remains greater. Their father says with a smile: “Sometimes I have the impression that sport is a priority for them more than studies. I don’t know if it’s just a feeling, but that’s what I notice.”
Both girls previously received an offer to participate in the Arab’s Got Talent program, but circumstances beyond their control prevented them from realizing this dream. Despite this, their eyes still shine with hope. They see themselves hoisting the Moroccan flag in international meetings one day.
