The event, held at Zaria Court in Kigali, brought together more than 60 young judoka, coaches, media representatives and dignitaries for an afternoon of inspiration, mentorship and empowerment. Special emphasis was placed on encouraging women and girls to embrace the values of judo and to pursue excellence both on and off the tatami.
Inspiring the Next Generation
The session’s objectives were clear: to motivate Rwanda’s next generation of judoka, particularly women and girls, by showcasing the journey of Clarisse Agbegnenou, Olympic and world champion and one of the most decorated judoka of her era. Through her personal story of victories and challenges at the elite level, Clarisse emphasised values of confidence, resilience and determination, which resonated strongly with the young audience. Her message was reinforced by a live demonstration led by women participants, further highlighting the role of women in sport and in judo development across Africa.
Meaningful Exchanges
The programme opened with welcoming remarks from representatives of SportBiz Africa, the RNOSC and the Rwanda Judo Federation who underscored the importance of this encounter for the growth of judo in Rwanda.
Clarisse then delivered a motivational talk, recounting her journey from grassroots to global podia. The interactive Q&A session proved to be one of the day’s highlights with young judoka, including 10 women from Mahama Refugee Camp Judo Club and four coaches from Goma (DRC), engaging with Clarisse about training routines, mental strength and career pathways. Rwandan Olympians and federation coaches also contributed to the discussions, creating an atmosphere of mentorship and exchange.
Celebrating Shared Values
The event concluded with a symbolic exchange of gifts: Clarisse received a token of appreciation from the organisers, while she in turn presented gifts to Ms Alice Umulinga, President of the RNOSC, and Mr Christian Bishyika, President of the Rwanda Judo Federation.
An autograph session followed, with Clarisse signing posters, T-shirts and judogi, while distributing stickers to the participants. A group photo and media interactions closed the evening, immortalising a day filled with energy, ambition and unity.
Lasting Impact
This session was not only an opportunity for young athletes to meet a global icon but also a catalyst for strengthening Rwanda’s judo culture. By promoting discipline, confidence and ambition and by empowering women and girls in particular, the event reinforced the message that judo can be a powerful driver of personal growth and social development.
As Rwanda continues to invest in its sport ecosystem, such initiatives underline the transformative role that international champions and role models can play in shaping the dreams and ambitions of Africa’s future judoka.
Clarisse Agbegnenou declared: "I so greatly appreciated the warm, simple and generous welcome I received in Rwanda. It was wonderful and you could see so much happiness in their eyes. It felt special because I don’t think they expected to see me there, almost as if it were a dream come true. That’s what I sensed.
Just being there, sharing my story, seeing all those people, especially the women and young girls, looking at me and thinking ‘she made it, she’s my heroine’ was extraordinary. Knowing that so many communities were united, Rwandans, refugees, Congolese and more, was just incredible.
I truly believe that sport helps people so much and it is beautiful to witness. Our shared passion for judo brings all these people together. I cannot wait to go back.”