Zakia Kulabako aims to promote rugby in Uganda through the Capgemini Women in Rugby Leadership Programme. As a former team manager, she is now focused on increasing school participation and establishing the sport as the national pastime. Her business skills, obtained through the program, assist in attracting sponsorship and enhancing women’s involvement in rugby.
Zakia Kulabako is ambitious about expanding rugby in Uganda, leveraging her experience in the Capgemini Women in Rugby Leadership Programme. Although she started as a team manager for KOBs in 2008, her passion for the sport drives her vision to popularize rugby as Uganda’s national sport.
Under her role with the Uganda Rugby Union, Kulabako aims to increase rugby’s presence in schools across the nation, stating, “I would love it to be like New Zealand where shops close when there’s a rugby game.” She recognizes the competition with football but sees potential in transforming existing football pitches into rugby fields.
After two unsuccessful applications, Kulabako felt immense pride when accepted into the prestigious Capgemini programme in early 2023. She expressed her gratitude, noting the significance of her acceptance given her non-playing background and Uganda being represented once again.
With guidance from Regina Lunyolo, the first Ugandan to participate in the programme, Kulabako transitioned from managing teams to incorporating her business acumen into rugby, particularly in attracting sponsorship. Her professional background as a business and events manager enhances her contributions to the game.
Through the Capgemini programme, she has accessed resources that have enriched her skills in project and financial management, which she now applies in her work in sports and events. Kulabako emphasized how the capabilities she has gained from the courses have propelled her career forward.
Kulabako’s vision extends to establishing a women’s franchise competition, supported by insights gained from program alumni. Engaging with successful leaders has inspired her to implement strategies that enhance women’s participation and retention in rugby, such as organizing tournaments.
Her overarching goal is to promote year-round rugby play in Uganda, fostering growth within the sport. The supportive network of the program has bolstered her confidence that their collaborative efforts will yield positive results.
Her recent experience at the Capgemini Women in Rugby Leadership Summit in Paris reinforced her commitment to rugby, which was sparked in 2008 when she first connected with the sport’s spirit of camaraderie. Kulabako cherishes the fraternity that rugby fosters, stating that it transcends competition, uniting players in a unique bond.
Overall, Zakia Kulabako is dedicated to the vision that rugby can be a significant sport in Uganda, as she works tirelessly to cultivate enthusiasm and participation across the country.
Zakia Kulabako exemplifies determination and passion as she seeks to grow rugby in Uganda through the Capgemini Women in Rugby Leadership Programme. With her background and newfound skills, she is focused on increasing rugby’s visibility in schools, fostering women’s competitions, and ultimately establishing rugby as a national sport. Her dedication highlights the importance of community and collaboration in achieving growth within the sport.
Original Source: www.women.rugby
