A Continental Stage For Excellence

The African Golden Awards stand as one of the continent's respected platforms celebrating impact, innovation and excellence across sectors. Since its inception, the awards have grown into a powerful recognition space for organisations and individuals shaping Africa’s future through leadership, creativity and community driven-work. From education to entrepreneurship and from arts to sports, the awards spotlight those who are building lasting change where it matters most. 

This year's ceremony carried a special significance for the development of sport. We were hugely honored to have received the African Academy of the Year Award, a recognition that speaks about our performance and purpose. As DBA Africa we are proud of this achievement.

A Win Rooted in Purpose and People 

Representing us at the ceremony was Phillip Wamae, the Head of Academies, whose presence reflected the organisation’s deep commitment to grassroots development and structured athlete growth. The award marks a defining moment for us, affirming years of consistent work in youth development, rugby development, and community transformation through sport.

This was not just a win on paper, it was a win for every young athlete who has passed through any DBA Africa programmes, every coach who has dedicated time to mentorship, plus every parent and community that has embraced sport as a pathway to opportunity.

Grassroots and Youth Development Through Sport

At the heart of our impact is our unwavering focus on grassroots development, where the journey begins on open fields, school grounds, and within community spaces, places where raw talent often meets limited opportunity. Long before recognition and awards, we invest in identifying and nurturing young athletes at the earliest stages, creating access for those who would otherwise go unnoticed through tournaments and festivals like the Futures Cup.

Through structured training sessions, school outreach programs, and regional festivals, the organisation has built a strong foundation that goes beyond sport. Within this system, sport becomes a powerful tool for youth development, shaping not just athletes but individuals. Programmes are designed to develop character alongside skill, ensuring growth mentally, socially, and emotionally.

With mentorship, life-skills training, and consistent exposure to competitive environments, young people gain the confidence to navigate both sport and life. The academy structure provides a clear pathway from entry-level participation to elite performance, reinforcing discipline, teamwork, and resilience at every stage. This approach is what sets DBA Africa apart, it is not about quick wins, but about building futures that last.

Driving Rugby Development Through Communities and Girls’ Inclusion

DBA Africa is playing a key role in advancing rugby development across growing regions by introducing structured coaching, competitive exposure, and clear talent pathways. Through this, the standard of play at both school and community levels continues to rise, with rugby serving as a platform to teach discipline, unity, and responsibility beyond the pitch. Key skills you learn through sport.

At the same time, DBA Africa is making a deliberate push for girls’ inclusion, creating space for young female athletes in environments where opportunities have often been limited. Through targeted programs, festivals, and mentorship, more girls are stepping onto the field, not just to participate, but to compete, lead, and thrive. Together, this approach is shaping a more inclusive and stronger future for the sport.

Scholarships, Coaching Pathways and Academies

We continue to open doors through sports scholarships, recognising that talent alone is not always enough. By connecting athletes to educational and sporting opportunities both locally and internationally, we are helping young people move beyond financial barriers and step into life-changing opportunities. Each scholarship represents years of preparation, belief, and the chance to build a different future.

Additionally, we have invested in strong coaching pathways, understanding that athlete development depends on the quality of guidance behind the scenes. Through workshops, certifications, and practical experience, coaches are equipped to mentor, train, and lead effectively, creating a system that grows from within.

This is all anchored in our academy model, spaces where structure, discipline, and ambition come together. These academies go beyond training, offering clear development pathways, consistent competition, and holistic support that shapes both performance and character. It is this balance that continues to place DBA Africa firmly on the continental map.

A Moment, and a Movement

The African Golden Awards recognition is a milestone, but for DBA Africa, it is also a reminder of the responsibility that comes with impact. The work continues, on the ground, in schools, within communities, and across every space where young people are looking for opportunity.

This award belongs to the journey, to the people, and to the belief that sport can change lives. For DBA, this is only the beginning.