The inspiring journey of Umwiza Liliane and Uwizeyimana Diane is a testament to the power of grassroots sports development, mentorship, and dedication.
Their rugby journey began when Gasengayire Jacqueline, Assistant Coach of 1000 Hills Rugby Queens, met them during a school outreach visit in 2022 at GS Gatenga I. At the time, they were young school girls with no knowledge or experience of rugby. Jacqueline introduced them to the sport, encouraged them to participate, and inspired them to join 1000 Hills Rugby Queens.
Through consistent training, guidance, commitment, and determination, the two girls gradually developed their rugby skills and became competitive players.
Their progress became evident in 2025 when 1000 Hills Rugby Queens participated in the Annual Genocide Memorial 7s Tournament competition for the first time and emerged as champions.
In 2026, the team continued to demonstrate its growth by finishing as runners-up in the GMT competition after facing Uganda's Ewes RFC in the final.
Today, what makes this journey particularly special is that Umwiza Liliane and Uwizeyimana Diane have been selected to represent Rwanda's national women's rugby team in the Rugby Afrique Women's Sevens qualification tournament to be held in Nairobi November 7-8, 2026.
For Jacqueline, this achievement goes beyond winning trophies. It is about witnessing two young girls who once knew nothing about rugby grow into talented athletes competing at international level.
Their story reflects the impact of introducing girls to sport, believing in their potential, and providing them with opportunities to grow and succeed.
From discovering rugby at school to representing Rwanda on the international stage, their journey is a powerful example of what investment in girls' rugby can achieve.
