Oriane Jean-François, French international footballer from Saint-Laurent-du-Maroni, Guyana, currently plays for Chelsea, England. Returning home for Christmas, she took advantage of her vacation to recharge her batteries, participate in solidarity actions and share her ambitions for 2025.
For Oriane Jean-François, returning to Guyana during the holidays is a decision deeply rooted in her values.
Where I am in London, it's magical, everything is lit up, and the atmosphere is magical. But here, in Guyana, Christmas is different. It's my family, the drum, the meals that last for hours and those moments where we sing until the early hours of the morning.
Even if the English capital offers dream settings during this period, Oriane did not hesitate to choose to return to her roots. “Christmas is also a matter of the heart. This is my home. It's another way to experience this celebration, in simplicity and sharing, with those who matter most. »
During her stay, Oriane was the surprise guest of the Saint-Laurent-du-Maroni women's biker association. Together, they traveled through the city's neighborhoods to distribute gifts and sweets to children. A remarkable experience for the player.
Seeing the children's smiles and feeling their joy is what touched me the most. Christmas is not an easy time for everyone, and being able to bring a little happiness is something important to me.
This journey also took her to the local hospital, where she brought comfort to families. “These moments reminded me that, even away from the field, it is still possible to make a difference, and that is a great lesson for me. »
If these holidays allowed Oriane to decompress, they nonetheless remain a strategic period.
I have a training program to follow. In the morning, I work with the Adelaide brothers, whether on the field or in the gym, to stay in shape.
This rigor is no coincidence, because the second part of the season promises to be intense. “With Chelsea, we are entering a decisive phase: the titles are now being decided. The Champions League is a huge goal for the club, because it would be a first for us. »
For Oriane, 2024 also represents a turning point in the national team.
The Euro in Switzerland is approaching, and I want to be there. After missing two major competitions with Les Bleues, I want to seize this opportunity and give the best of myself.
This mix of collective and personal ambitions illustrates the determination of a player who never backs down from challenges. “Every step is a chance to progress, and I want to be 100% ready. »
Oriane does not forget to send a few words to those who have followed her since her beginnings in Guyana. “If I have a message for young people, it would be to never give up on your dreams. Everything is not always easy, but with perseverance and passion, everything becomes possible. »
This message finds a particular echo in Saint-Laurent-du-Maroni, where the stadium that bears his name has become a gathering place for future generations. “It’s always a bit surreal for me to see people playing or training on this stadium. It’s a huge honor, and it reminds me why I do all of this. »
With her humility and deep attachment to her roots, Oriane Jean-François continues to inspire well beyond football. Whether at Chelsea, with the French team or with young Guyanese, she embodies the values of perseverance and sharing. As 2024 begins, all eyes are on this player with a big heart, who continues to climb the ranks.
