Soccer Passion: Quiana Martin

Name: Qiana Martin

What is your job? I am an international athlete, global soccer ambassador, owner of Eat Soccer and Fila Body Toning Spokesmodel.

What social causes are most important to you?

I am committed to causes that support youth development.

What charities do you support – and how? I donate my time, talent and funds to support initiatives with Sporty Girls Inc., Soccer in the Streets, the Martin Luther King Recreation Center, and The Anderson Monarchs.

Why do you have a passion for this one in particular, is there a personal tie? Soccer is the most watched/played sport in the world.  Athletically speaking, it is the universal language.  I have a commitment to these organizations because they are giving inner city youth a global passport to communicate with the rest of the world and helping them to develop valuable life skills in the process.

Is there a particular way you would want to encourage readers to be involved? 

I would like to encourage Inked Magazine readers who are fans of or have played soccer to consider volunteering their time to work with organizations, such as those listed above, that are introducing the sport of soccer to under exposed communities.

How would you define social responsibility?  

For me, social responsibility is paying forward the talents, opportunities and lucky breaks that were given to me.

Do you have any tattoos that relate to your social work?  

The tattoo I have on the side of my upper left thigh (a sun with tear drop rays) serves as a symbol of motivation for me.  The sun will always rise and shine.  Every day, I should strive to be the same way despite any adversity (tears) that I endure.

My tattoo was done by the world renowned Shaw’s Tattoo Parlor in Houston, Texas.