Nigeria’s Arabinrin Aderonke Atoyebi has etched her name on the global stage after being crowned the International Sport and Culture Association (ISCA) Role Model of the Year in Copenhagen, Denmark, a recognition that celebrates her tireless work in using sports as a vehicle for empowerment and inclusion.
The biennial ISCA Awards honour individuals and organisations that harness sports and physical activity to promote social change and community development worldwide.
This year’s edition drew nominations from several countries, recognising exceptional figures who have turned the power of sport into tools of transformation.
Atoyebi’s consistent advocacy for gender equality, youth development, and social inclusion has positioned her as a leading light in Nigeria’s sports-for-development movement.
Her initiatives have shown how sports can serve as a unifying force, building bridges of hope, education, and empowerment, particularly for young women.
As part of the recognition, she received a €3,000 (about $3,200) cash prize and international visibility associated with the prestigious honour.
Expressing her gratitude after receiving the award, Atoyebi dedicated the recognition 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.
“Being recognised on such an international stage proves that no effort toward positive change ever goes unnoticed. It motivates me to keep pushing boundaries and reaching more girls who need hope and opportunity,” she said.
Her global recognition underscores Nigeria’s expanding footprint in the world of sports and social impact.
Atoyebi’s story now serves as a rallying call for young African women, a reminder that with passion, persistence, and purpose, they too can rise to shape a more inclusive and equitable world.
