A remarkable chapter in Kenyan sports leadership unfolded on Saturday, June 28, as the She Drives Sports initiative proudly graduated its inaugural class of women leaders.
Twelve exceptional women from diverse sports completed a transformative seven-month journey at the event.
Sports Connect Africa and Moving the Goalposts launched She Drives Sports in 2024 to empower women with leadership skills. This initiative empowers women to lead and transform the male-dominated sports world with confidence and inclusivity.
Among the standout graduates were Camilyne Oyuayo, Team Manager of the Kenya Lionesses rugby team; Priscila Mburu, Kenya’s top-ranked rifle shooter; and sports radio presenter Hilda Cheptoo. Also celebrated were football star Esse Akida and beach volleyball champion Gaudencia Makokha, who participated in absentia while representing Kenya at the Continental Beach Volleyball Championships in Morocco.
Participants completed a seven-month intensive program on leadership, safeguarding, communication, and governance systems. Beyond classroom sessions, the program provided valuable mentorship opportunities from an impressive lineup of sports professionals and executives. Mentors included Olympic champion Mary Harvey, sports marketing expert Grace Kiraguri, Dr. Edna Thangu of Kenyatta University, Quinter Adongo, Sadili Africa founder Dr. Liz Odera, and Eagles Basketball founder Nellie Odera.
For many of the graduates, the experience has been life-changing.
“This program has built my capacity. I leave better informed, with sharper decision-making skills that my role as Team Manager demands,” said Camilyne Oyuayo.
Hilda Cheptoo, reflecting on the experience, added.
“Holding that certificate was fulfilling, a testament to the value of the lessons I’ve gathered. I’m ready to carry these lessons out into the world and inspire other women in sports.”
Executive Director of Moving the Goalposts Dorcas Amakobe, highlighted the program’s importance.
“By empowering women to lead, we are shaping the future of sports and inspiring a generation of changemakers.”
CEO of Sports Connect Africa Cynthia Mumbo, underscored the initiative’s wider ambitions.
“Sport has a unique power to transform lives. This program equips women to break barriers and drive positive change. With the first cohort complete, we’re excited to announce that recruitment for the second cohort will open before the year ends.”
She Drives Sports seeks partners to join its inclusive, empowered sports community for the next cohort.
