THUBAELIHLE SIBANDA
“Sometimes it might seem like people like us do not exist, but if you search hard enough, you will find someone who can inspire you to push towards your goals.”
Meet Thubaelihle Sibanda, a Zimbabwean born, Namibian-based football coach and sport management consultant working with women’s football development programs and grassroots sport organisations in Africa and worldwide to deliver multi-dimensional interventions. As the program director of Physically Active Youth Namibia, her work is inspired by her own life’s story which influenced her drive to use sport as a tool to build communities that are places of hope, where potential is unearthed and dreams defined and found.
BEING THE ROLE MODEL
“Growing up, I struggled to find female role models in the sports arena that looked liked me. Today, I get to be that role model and that face that says women like me do exist. I get to change the narrative, by showing up, sharing my story and inspiring the next generation of female sports leaders to take their place at any table they choose, because they do belong. No one should tell them otherwise!”
ADVICE TO YOUNG WOMEN IN SPORT
“My advice to young women aspiring to work in the sports industry is to go for it! There is enough room for them to find themselves and their purpose through sports. What’s important is to invest in themselves by building their capacity to execute their work, finding role models within the industry to follow and learn from, and exposing themselves to as much as they can about their areas of interest within the industry so they can continue to grow. Lastly, they should not hesitate to ask for advice, volunteer, and build up their experience.“
WOMEN BELONG IN SPORTS
“Women belong in sports and must strive to lead in the industry because they are relatable role models for the next generation of female sports stars and leaders. More women in leadership positions in sports will provide a more relatable experience and a context-sensitive voice, sending a strong message about the future of women’s sports.”
A RESILIENT SPIRIT
“In sports, you need a strong support system, a resilient spirit, and an unwavering thirst to make a difference and change the narrative. You need a cause that is strongly tied to your own story and a desire to see more visible and celebrated female role models on our screens. That is what I have seen in the people who inspired my path, and that is what I strive to be for the people who currently follow me and whom I mentor.”
