Kenya Lionesses Captain Sheila Chajira, a double Olympian with over a decade in national Sevens Earns IOC Role Model Honour Ahead of Rugby Africa Women’s Cup Showdown.
Sheila Chajira has earned one more lofty recognition ahead of yet another important tournament in her impressive international rugby career.
Ahead of this month’s Rugby Africa Women’s Cup Performance Division in Nairobi from 23–31 May, the 32-year-old Kenyan ace has been named by the International Olympic Committee (IOC) as one of the Athlete Role Models for the 2026 Youth Olympic Games to be held in the Senegalese capital, Dakar, in October and November.
The 31 experienced senior Olympians will mentor young athletes in Dakar, playing an integral role in supporting the next generation, a tradition in this event since the very first Youth Olympics took place in Singapore back in 2010.
Chajira who represents Kenya in both formats of the game – is the only African rugby personality among the Athlete Role Models for Dakar.
Another key milestone is that the Dakar Youth Olympics will be the first IOC event to be staged in Africa, and it will also take place under the leadership of the first African president of the IOC, former Zimbabwe swimmer and the continent’s most decorated Olympian, Kirsty Coventry.
“As a two-time Olympian, I want young athletes to see that the Olympic dream is real and achievable because I’ve lived that journey myself,” Chajira said.
Sheila Chajira is a Kenyan rugby player who has represented her country at the national level and is recognised as part of the growing profile of women’s rugby in Kenya. She has contributed to the sport both through her on‑field performances and her role in strengthening the visibility and participation of women in rugby.
Sheila Chajira is a Two-Time Olympian, Women’s Rugby – 2016, 2020
Commonwealth Games – 2018
African Championships Gold Medallist – 2018
Challenger Series Champion – 2025
She pursued her education alongside rugby career in
World Rugby Level 2 Coaching certification.
