Nigerian sports advocate Aderonke Atoyebi has been honoured with the International Sport and Culture Association Role Model of the Year award in Copenhagen, Denmark.
The recognition, announced on Tuesday, celebrates Atoyebi’s efforts in using sports to promote empowerment and social inclusion across Nigeria.
The biennial ISCA Awards recognise individuals and organisations that use sports and physical activity to drive social change and community development globally. This year’s edition attracted nominations from multiple countries, spotlighting figures who have transformed sport into a vehicle for positive change.
Atoyebi has built a reputation as a leading advocate for gender equality, youth development, and social inclusion within Nigeria’s sports-for-development sector. Her programmes demonstrate how sports can bring communities together, providing hope, education, and opportunities, especially for young women.
The award came with a cash prize of $3,200 and international recognition on a prestigious platform.
Speaking after receiving the honour, Atoyebi dedicated the achievement to her team and supporters.
“This award means a lot to me. It’s a testament to the hard work my team and I have put in over the years,” she said.
“Being recognised on such an international stage proves that no effort towards positive change ever goes unnoticed. It motivates me to keep pushing boundaries and reaching more girls who need hope and opportunity.”
