Rayvon Ambale’s inspiring journey begins deep in Kakamega Forest, where he grew up before attending Butula High School in Busia County, Western Kenya. Like many young people in the region, Rayvon’s life was shaped by the challenges of a low socio-economic environment.  but on the sports field, he found motivation, hope, and opportunity.

His first reason for showing up to rugby training? A slice of bread.

Rayvon’s initial motivation to attend rugby training and join his local club came from the promise of a small meal after practice, usually just a slice of bread. That small incentive was enough to keep him coming back week after week. Eventually, he joined his school’s rugby team, where coaches began to recognise his potential.

From those humble beginnings, Rayvon’s passion for sport began to grow. He quickly fell in love with the game, realising that rugby wasn’t just about physical strength, it could be a gateway to opportunity and personal growth.

Fast forward to 2023: thanks to DBA Africa’s international scholarship programme, Rayvon earned a life-changing opportunity to finish school and play rugby in the United Kingdom. For the past two years, he has been attending Bryanston School, where he’s developed both as a student and an athlete. He’s had the chance to represent Bryanston at the Rosslyn Park Sevens, train at the Bath Junior Rugby Academy, and play under legendary coach Mike Friday for Shogun Rugby 7s, rubbing shoulders with some of England’s top youth players and coaches.

Not to mention, Rayvon has been educated at one of England’s most recognised private schools, a system worlds apart from what he experienced in regional Kenya. “The academics here have encouraged independent thinking and how to manage time while participating in sports helped to make friends, stay physically active and given me leadership skills which have taught me to be resilient,” Rayvon shares.

The experience has given Rayvon a deep sense of purpose. He’s aware that many young people in Kenya may never get the same opportunity, which motivates him to work even harder. “The scholarship has given me a strong sense of purpose and responsibility keeping in mind that I was given an opportunity that not everyone gets which motivated me to work harder and stay focused.”

Rayvon now dreams of giving back. He hopes to become a mentor to young athletes from underprivileged communities, showing them that sport can lead to real change. “I’ve seen how sport builds confidence, discipline, and a sense of belonging. I want to help others experience that and aim higher.”

To young athletes in Kenya and Uganda who dream of studying or playing abroad, Rayvon offers this advice: “My advice to any young athletes is that there will be tough days, but those moments will shape your character. Stay focused on your goals, ask for help if needed, and make the most of every opportunity and above all put God first.”

Rayvon’s journey, from a makeshift training pitch in Kakamega to the rugby fields of England is a powerful testament to how sports scholarships can transform lives. His story embodies DBA Africa’s mission: using sport and education to empower youth and build a brighter future across the continent.

As more opportunities arise for student-athletes like Rayvon, his journey encourages the next generation to work hard both on the field and in the classroom. DBA Africa remains committed to providing talented individuals with the platform to be seen by scouts and selectors,  through its weekly sports academies and flagship rugby event, the Futures Cup. Already, several players have secured both local and international scholarships, with many more to come.