Lessons Beyond the Festival

Conversations That Matter

There was a different kind of energy at the DBA Western Girls Holiday Festival, not just from the games but from the conversations happening off the pitch. In between matches, as boots came off and teams gathered under shade, the message was clear: rugby is part of life, and it helps shape it.

Finding the Balance

Speaking to the girls, Edwin Achayo, Head of Development at Kabras RFC, kept it simple and honest. “Balance”, he said, is everything. Being a student-athlete is not about choosing one over the other, but understanding that both matter, and both shape your future. He spoke about discipline, time management, and the reality that opportunities in sport often open doors in education. It’s not just about playing well, it’s about showing up in the classroom too.

That message was echoed by DBA Africa’s Director of Academies, Phillip Wamae, who reminded the girls that the journey they are on goes far beyond weekend fixtures. The systems being built through academies are meant to guide them, step by step, into better players and stronger individuals.

A Pathway Taking Shape

And standing as a real example of that journey was 15-year-old Shirlyn Ingaso. Her story is still unfolding, but already it carries weight.

From being part of the DBA Girls Dream Team that toured the coast, to featuring in the Futures Cup with Nairobi Lightning, Shirlyn has steadily grown through the system. Those early opportunities, the tournaments, the festivals, the consistent coaching, did more than sharpen her game, they opened doors.

She secured a scholarship to Sigoti Girls, a moment that speaks directly to what had been shared earlier, that commitment to both books and rugby can create real opportunities.

Stepping Onto the Big Stage

Then came a moment many players spend years working towards. Coming off the bench for Kenya Harlequins Queens, Shirlyn made her senior debut count. One try, two conversions, and a performance full of confidence in a commanding 60–3 win over Northern Suburbs in the Women’s Kenya Cup final.

It wasn’t just about the points. It was about composure, about readiness, about a young player stepping into a big stage and looking like she belonged.

That moment also reflects something bigger happening within the club itself. The Kenya Harlequins ladies, after years away, have returned to the women’s league with intent. Their rise this season has not been accidental. Under the guidance of Head Coach Sheila Chajira, a leader on and off the pitch and captain of the Kenya Lionesses, the team has become a strong hub for women’s rugby development.

There’s structure. There’s belief. There’s female role models. And most importantly, there’s a clear pathway for young girls coming through.

More Than a Festival

Back at the festival, as the day went on, the lessons settled in quietly. This is what DBA Africa continues to build, spaces where girls are not only given a chance to play, but are guided on how to grow. Through consistent rugby development, exposure to tournaments and festivals, and mentorship from those who have walked the path, the gap between potential and opportunity keeps getting smaller. Because for many of these girls, the dream is no longer distant.

They’ve seen it. They’ve heard it and now, they’re walking towards it.