Chajira Selected as Role Model for Dakar 2026 Youth Olympics

Kenya’s women’s rugby 7s captain, Sheila Kavugwe Chajira, has been appointed as an Athlete Role Model for the forthcoming Dakar 2026 Youth Olympic Games, marking a historic occasion as the continent hosts its inaugural Olympic Games.
Chajira is part of an elite cohort of 31 athletes selected by the International Olympic Committee (IOC) and International Federations to mentor and motivate young competitors throughout the Games.
The Athlete Role Model initiative stands as a fundamental component of the Youth Olympics, aimed at guiding the upcoming generation via mentorship programs, workshops, and daily engagement within the Youth Olympic Village.
As a dual Olympian (Rio 2016 and Tokyo 2020), Chajira has been a steadfast figure in Kenyan women’s rugby for more than ten years.
Her athletic achievements feature participation in the 2018 Commonwealth Games, an African Championships gold medal, and triumph at the 2025 Challenger Series.
Beyond her playing career, she holds a World Rugby Level 2 coaching certification and fervently promotes the advancement of women’s sports in Kenya.
Regarding her selection, Chajira remarked, ‘This is a truly humbling opportunity. Having had the privilege of representing my nation for over 11 years, I now have the chance to assist and mentor young athletes globally. It represents a unique form of responsibility, but one I am fully prepared to embrace.’
She continued: ‘I am eager to embrace this significant role. It represents a major achievement in my professional journey, and I anticipate sharing my experiences as both an Olympian and an athlete who has evolved through the sport.’
Her advice to emerging athletes was equally motivational: ‘Remain patient and compassionate toward yourself. Resist comparing your path with others. Your moment will arrivehave faith in it, even when progress seems gradual.’
With fewer than 200 days remaining until Dakar 2026, Team Kenya acknowledges Chajira’s recognition as proof of her exemplary leadership and commitment.
Her naming follows another notable achievement for Kenya, as Humphrey Kayange assumes the role of Chair for the IOC Coordination Commission for the Games.