Sport en Commun

Girls’ empowerment, personal development and talent identification through rugby sevens

Community programs


Cote D'Ivoire (Ivory Coast)

Feb 2025 –

Project overview 

This project uses rugby sevens as a platform for the expression, empowerment and development of young girls aged 12 to 18 in Côte d’Ivoire. While Ivorian rugby has achieved strong international visibility, opportunities for female players remain limited. The initiative responds to this gap by creating structured sporting, educational and personal development opportunities for girls. 
 
Beyond athletic training, the project integrates educational sessions focused on personal development, health and life skills, enabling participants to strengthen their confidence, leadership and long-term prospects while showcasing female role models in rugby. 

Project objectives 

  • Promote and develop women’s rugby sevens in Côte d’Ivoire.
  • Strengthen the personal development and self-confidence of young girls through sport.
  • Identify rugby talent and improve athletic performance pathways for girls.
  • Provide complementary education on health, learning and social integration. 

Sport and education component 

  • Organisation of national-level women’s rugby sevens competitions.
  • Regular training sessions focused on technical, physical and tactical development.
  • Educational workshops on personal growth and social skills. 

Capacity building and pathways 

  • Training of coaches and educators involved in girls’ rugby.
  • Development of pathways towards high-level sport and professional integration.
  • Engagement of volunteers and strengthening of grassroots rugby structures. 

Target beneficiaries 

  • Direct beneficiaries: approximately 300 girls aged 14 to 20.
  • Indirect beneficiaries: coaches, volunteers, club members and the wider rugby community. 

Scale and expected impact 

  • Increased participation of girls in rugby activities.
  • Improved athletic performance and talent visibility.
  • Stronger female role models within the national rugby ecosystem.
  • Enhanced social inclusion and confidence among participants.