Kurdish-Danish Gymnast Valentina Maher Jamil: A Rising Star with Deep Roots
ERBIL (Kurdistan24) — In a Danish classroom, a school-issued book has become a source of inspiration, spotlighting the achievements of an exceptional student. At the heart of its pages lies a distinctive symbol: the flag of Kurdistan. This emblem was not included by chance; it was a conscious request from 14-year-old Valentina Maher Jamil, a gymnastics prodigy whose fierce dedication to her Kurdish heritage shines alongside her remarkable athletic accomplishments.
Born in the village of Qojiman in Afrin, Northwest Syria, Valentina made her journey to Denmark when she was just two months old. Despite spending her formative years in Scandinavia, she has emerged as a formidable athlete and a proud ambassador for her roots.
A Natural Talent Unearthed
Valentina’s foray into gymnastics began at the tender age of four—not in a polished sports complex but in the vibrant chaos of a kindergarten playground. “I was playing and practicing gymnastics movements when my teacher noticed my talent and urged me to join a club,” Valentina recalled in an interview with Kurdistan24.
Encouraged by her father, Maher Jamil, she registered for classes, igniting a competitive journey that would sweep her into the world of gymnastics. Just a year later, she stepped onto the championship stage for the first time. “I was a bit shy at first, but also very proud,” she reflected on her debut.
Since then, Valentina has participated in nine championships throughout Denmark, delivering a record that is nothing short of remarkable: seven gold medals and two silver. Yet amid her successes, she insists that her love for gymnastics remains at the forefront. “I truly enjoy the sport; training never feels like a burden,” she shared.
The Book and the Flag
Valentina’s brilliance isn’t confined to gymnastics; she excels academically as well. Her school was so taken by her dedication that they decided to publish a book chronicling her inspiring journey. A significant moment during its creation came when a teacher posed an important question: “Would you like the Kurdish flag included?”
Without hesitation, Valentina answered, “Yes! I cherish the flag of Kurdistan.” For her, this was not merely an emblem; it was an assertion of identity within a Western institution. She credits her parents for this foundational sense of belonging. “My father instilled in us a love for our homeland—Kurdistan and Afrin—and made sure we retained our language,” she said.
At just 14, Valentina is already stepping into a mentorship role. She serves as an assistant coach at the Sikhail Club in Denmark, guiding younger gymnasts while balancing her own rigorous training and academic commitments. “I embrace this responsibility wholeheartedly,” she acknowledged. “I take direction from the head coach and genuinely care for the younger children.”
Through coaching, Valentina conveys values imparted by her family. “The Danish children know I come from Kurdistan. My parents taught me to respect others, and I mirror that in my interactions with the kids.”
With an eye on the future, Valentina harbors dual aspirations: to excel in gymnastics and to uphold her cultural identity. “I hope to represent Denmark while proudly raising the Kurdistan flag,” she declared, emphasizing her resolve.
Her message to fellow Kurdish youth is one of empowerment: “We need knowledge and passion for our hobbies to thrive and succeed.”
A Father’s Mission in the Diaspora
Behind Valentina’s achievements lies a family devoted to preserving their culture while navigating a new society. Her father, Maher Jamil, expressed profound gratitude for the opportunity to share their story.
He explained that maintaining a strong Kurdish identity in Europe requires conscious effort. “I instill national pride in my children,” Jamil told Kurdistan24. “We educate them about the Kurdish people across all four regions of Kurdistan, and we speak Kurdish at home.”
For Jamil, witnessing his daughter honored in a Danish publication that includes the Kurdish flag is a moment of profound pride. “I am elated to see my children embrace their Kurdish heritage,” he shared.
He offered heartfelt advice to other Kurdish families in Europe concerned about cultural erosion: “I hope families become symbols of Kurdish identity. They should speak Kurdish at home and support their children in all pursuits, especially in education.”
As Valentina continues to shine in both her athletic and academic journeys, the story of her family and their commitment to culture serves as a beacon of hope and inspiration for Kurdish communities around the world.
