VIOLET JUBANE
“Keep on learning. the industry needs women who are hardworking and good at what they are doing.”
Meet Violet Jubane, a sports manager with extensive experience in football administration, management, and sport for development. As the COSAFA Women’s Football Consultant, she designs and implements women’s development programmes across the region. Violet has also worked as a FIFA Women’s Football Expert, helping to drive the growth and impact of women’s football across the African continent.
“My journey in sport began as an intern at the Zimbabwe Football Association. After a couple of years, I realised that this is an interesting industry and I ended up enrolling for a sports related programme at Nelson Mandela University in 2016.”
“Through my journey, I’ve met many people who have been so helpful, supportive, and encouraging, but I especially appreciate those who gave me an opportunity at the Zimbabwe Football Association (ZIFA), because that chance opened so many doors for me.
When I was studying at Nelson Mandela University, I also received very encouraging words from my professors. I was doing well in class, but I didn’t fully realise my potential until they challenged me with different tasks that pushed me out of my comfort zone.”
FINDING HER PASSION
“In 2006, I followed the FIFA World Cup on TV and didn’t want to miss a single moment. The fact that those memories still stay with me made me realise just how deep my passion for the beautiful game truly is.
Then, in 2018, I had the incredible opportunity to travel to Russia and attend one of the FIFA World Cup matches. After managing to secure funding for the trip, I realised that I’m capable of achieving even greater things in my life.”
DRIVING SUSTAINABLE GROWTH IN WOMEN’S SPORT
“It is always important to evaluate the social impact of a project. The more the profit-oriented it becomes, the more it risks losing its integrity and positive perception from stakeholders.
Brands and sponsors have a crucial role in empowering women in sport. They should be more considerate of what resonates with women and align the strategies in that area. This could include the designing of merchandise.
I am excited to see more women’s sports brands growing in the market and getting recognition from the corporate world. Success in this area can come through database creation, intellectual rights protection such as trademarks, copyrights and personality rights.”
LEAVING A LEGACY
“At times, it may not begin with passion but with unexpected experiences that drop at your doorstep, making you realise it was meant to be. My first undergraduate qualification was in marketing, but the opportunities that came my way were completely different. As a result, I’ve found it incredibly fulfilling to work in sport, achieve great things, and inspire other women along the way.”
“Keep on learning. The industry is not lenient. It needs women who are hardworking and skilled. Whatever opportunities come your way, don’t just be a box ticker; be a representative for all the other women striving for the growth of women’s sport”
