In the third and final part of our portrait series, we focus on Alayah Pilgrim, who we interviewed together with Noemi Ivelj, Patricia Herzog and Patricia Gsell at the training camp in Valais. The 22-year-old attacker with Moroccan roots stands for speed, creativity and goal threat. She has also played for AS Roma since the start of 2024. Despite her young age, Alayah is already an important pillar of the national team. Away from football, she is also digitally active on social media and impressively demonstrates how she combines sport and personality.

"Alayah, what are your most loyal travel companions, what five things absolutely must not be missing from your European Championship suitcase?"
“There are always snacks and a good book in my suitcase,” says Alayah. The board game Brändi Dog and her perfume are also part of her regular essentials. But at the top of the list are her headphones. She explains that music accompanies her on every trip, especially on long team journeys. She listens to her playlist to mentally prepare for the game, motivate herself, and find focus. Her music selection varies depending on her mood, but Afrobeats and artists like Lil Baby are always included and never fail to lift her spirits.

Next up is a quick snack quiz: teammate Noemi attempts to pick out Alayah’s go-to power snack before a game. Noemi guesses: "Maybe a protein bar?" Alayah smiles and explains that she actually likes to eat a bit of chocolate. "Preferably milk chocolate or ovo chocolate".

And what would Alayah sneak into her teammates' luggage? She doesn't have to think long here either. Toothpaste, hair products and hair oil are things that are easy to forget. She would certainly make her teammates happy with these products . Then she laughs and asks: "I should probably buy these items today. Where can you actually get them around here?"

In the game "Who is more likely to...?", Alayah and Noemi read out statements to which they each respond with a sign showing the name of the person to whom the statement best applies.
Who is more likely to have to sort out their suitcase because it no longer closes and is too full? They both agree: Alayah is more likely to do this. She admits that she often packs far too many outfits that she doesn't even need in the end. "I always take clothes for all weathers with me", she says, "and so I always end up with something that I don't wear because it's too warm or too cold."

It quickly becomes clear who would be the better packing support. Alayah would be ready on time and support Noemi with her tried and tested checklist so that nothing is forgotten.
Do you remember Noemi's packing habits from our first series of portraits? You can find the link to the first article here.

Who has the better packing hacks? Here, Alayah has a slight edge. She explains that she sorts her clothes into smaller travel bags such as for underwear, pants, and casual or sportswear. This creates order and saves space. Additionally, she rolls her pants and T-shirts, which proves especially useful when packing. Noemi is impressed, and we will be keeping this tip in mind as well.

And it's also clear who unpacks first when they arrive at the hotel or are back from vacation: Alayah usually leaves some items in the suitcase and only takes out the things she often needs, such as underwear or the toiletry bag. Private clothes often stay packed for longer. And when she returns from vacation, she is the first to unpack. "It's like doing homework at school as a child. I want to get it done straight away."

From Rome to the ascent in the name: Alayah’s defining milestones and what they mean
Alayah’s suitcase has accompanied her to many places, but one stop was especially significant: her move to AS Roma. Her first transfer abroad was a major step, both professionally and personally. “With a one way ticket in hand, I traveled to Rome, knowing that this would now be my new home.” She was instantly captivated by the city. Living alone for the first time and in Italy no less was a unique experience,” says the footballer. She has been playing there since early 2024 and feels truly settled.

The fact that her name also means ‘ascent’ surprised her, as she had always associated it with hummingbirds in Indigenous American languages. But she feels both meanings suit her. Her career has been rising steadily, especially since moving to Rome. In her personal life too, there's a sense of momentum and steady progress.

Travel and memories that last: Alayah between Latin America and Asia
When Alayah talks about her travels, it quickly becomes clear that it is the people she meets who leave the biggest impression. One of the most formative experiences for her was her time in Latin America, especially in Cuba. She was deeply moved by the joy and spirit of the people. Despite living in modest conditions, they were open, warm, and always surrounded by music. It was not a hotel vacation, but real connection. She has been there three times, including a five week stay with friends in the countryside, where she danced every day, played football in the streets, and picked up a bit of Spanish. That time was more than just a trip for her, it felt like a way of life. Singapore and Hong Kong are at the top of her list for her next trip abroad. From there, she would like to travel further afield to Southeast Asia and discover the region, such as Bali or other parts of Indonesia.

"And no matter where the journey takes me, I always have a ball with me." Whether on her foot or in her hand. Alayah loves football as much as volleyball and beach ball on vacation.

"Home European Championship versus international experience – do you miss playing abroad, or are you especially looking forward to the tournament at home?"

Alayah says she was really looking forward to the home Euros and explains that it means a lot to her to play again in front of a home crowd, in other words, in front of family, friends, and fans. The familiar atmosphere gives her a lot of energy, something she sometimes misses when playing abroad. There, the environment feels less familiar, the culture and language are different, and the closeness to loved ones is not always as present.

Finally, we play a short round of "This or That: Travel Edition".

• Hand luggage or large suitcase? Hand luggage is better. It's quicker and more practical - depending on where you're going, it's more than enough.

• Early bird flight or afternoon flight? Early bird flight, even though I'm not really an early riser. But it's worth getting up early for a trip.

• Discover Switzerland or wander into the distance? Definitely into the distance. There are still so many countries to discover.

• Tomato juice or apple spritzer? Apple spritzer. Tomato juice isn’t really my thing.

• Instagram Stories while traveling or only after the trip? More after the trip. That way I can take my time to share photos and highlights.

As a farewell gift, Alayah also receives a little European Championship surprise from SWISS for her toiletry bag: the natural Alpine Valley body lotion by Soeder and a miniature airplane as a symbolic good luck charm.

In our portrait series, we got to know the players of the Swiss women's national team from a personal perspective – through their stories, routines, and dreams. As the group stage kicks off, we wish the team great success, steady nerves, and unforgettable moments at this special home European Championship. Hopp Schwiiz!