As the 2023 Women's World Cup approached, Sofie Junge Pedersen spearheaded the largest player-led climate action campaign in football history. Now, with the men's tournament on the horizon, she is backing World Football Giving Day, a movement designed to encourage donations on May 26 to support non-profit organizations worldwide affected by aid cuts. The initiative has garnered support from prominent figures such as Jurgen Klopp, Juan Mata, Dani Olmo, and Vivianne Miedema.

Pedersen emphasizes the unique power of football to unify people, stating, "Football has that power. But it also has a responsibility, with so many followers, to do something more to make the world a better place." As a member of Common Goal, an initiative where football figures pledge one percent of their salaries to charitable causes, Pedersen is committed to putting her words into action.

She believes that words alone are insufficient and that tangible actions are necessary to drive meaningful change. "There is action behind this message.

A lot of organizations need a little support. We should all help," Pedersen has a long history of dedication to good causes, having visited Zambia and Ghana to witness the impact of her fundraising campaigns.

She has seen firsthand how football can bring people together, promote health, and provide a platform for discussing important issues such as sexual and reproductive health. The Denmark international is frustrated that football's full potential is not being utilized to drive change, given the vast sums involved in the sport. "Football should definitely do more. We do not have any excuses," Pedersen is proud of the progress made ahead of the 2023 World Cup, where a group of players offset the environmental impact of their travel.

However, she acknowledges the challenge of remaining optimistic in a world where progress is not always positive. To address this, Pedersen organized presentations for her squad and national team, outlining the issues and ways to help.

She is aware that some people may be turned off by overly preachy messages and is trying to be pragmatic in her approach. World Football Giving Day is one such effort, and Pedersen will be doing her part.

To take action, visit the World Football Giving Day website (www.worldfootballgivingday.org) to donate to one of the 100+ registered non-profits or find your own way to give back to your local community or globally.