As the world of sport continues to evolve beyond competition and medals, the Rwanda National Olympic and Sports Committee (RNOSC), in collaboration with Athlete 365, is helping its athletes prepare for life after the finish line. From October 6–7, 2025, the Lemigo Hotel was filled with ambition as 32 Rwandan athletes gathered for the second edition of the Athlete365 Career+ Workshop, an initiative powered by the International Olympic Committee (IOC) to support athletes’ education, career development, and personal growth.
Facilitated by IOC Educator Kady Kanouté Tounkara (Oly), a former Olympian and seasoned mentor, the two-day workshop brought together participants from across Rwanda’s sporting landscape including volleyball, cycling, fencing, cricket, basketball and more. The sessions blended self-discovery, career planning, and life skills in an environment that was as reflective as it was empowering.
The workshop began with a deep dive into self-awareness through a creative tool known as the “Me Map.” This interactive exercise encouraged athletes to identify their skills, strengths, motivators, and passions.
“Every athlete has a story worth telling,” said Tounkara, urging participants to view their experiences beyond sport as assets for future opportunities.
In his opening remarks, Aristide Mugabe, President of the Athletes’ Commission, encouraged his peers to take the workshop to heart:
“I hope this workshop will help us discover our superpowers and understand what we can do in our capacity as athletes—to earn extra income and prepare for life after sports.”
RNOSC Secretary General Joseph Kajangwe reiterated this message, highlighting the continuity between sport and real-life impact:
“As athletes, your journey does not end when the competition ends. The knowledge and skills you acquire here will empower you to transition confidently and continue contributing positively to your communities.”
Throughout the sessions, athletes engaged in reflective discussions about the Olympic Values of Excellence, Respect, and Friendship, sharing personal experiences that gave these ideals new meaning beyond the field.
They also explored the S.O.A.R. framework (Situation, Obstacles, Action, Results); a practical storytelling tool to help them describe their experiences and achievements in ways that resonate with employers and partners.
Day Two shifted focus to career development and professional readiness. The morning session on CV writing guided athletes in crafting strong, action-oriented résumés that highlight transferable skills acquired through sport. They learned about different CV formats, the use of action verbs, and the importance of tailoring applications to job descriptions. Additionally, the athletes indulged into key life skills: financial literacy, mental health, and ethics. Through engaging online modules on the Athlete365+ platform, athletes learned how to budget within an athletic lifestyle, cope with performance pressure, and maintain integrity under influence; both on and off the pitch.
The workshop concluded with a moment of reflection and commitment: the Sportsmanship Ethical Pledge. Athletes vowed to uphold honesty, fairness, and transparency.
During the closing ceremony, Aristide Mugabe once again encouraged athletes to “market yourselves and have actions to back it up,” while Kady Kanouté Tounkara commended their engagement: “You’ve shown great commitment. Take what you’ve learned and share it with your peers in your clubs and federations.”
Secretary General Kajangwe Joseph thanked the IOC for its continued support, congratulating the athletes for their participation:
“You now have the tools to plan your careers, manage your finances, and stay mentally strong. Apply them and make your mark.”
Behind the two-day event lay months of collaboration between the RNOSC, the IOC, and Rwanda’s various national sports federations. By empowering athletes to plan, prepare, and thrive beyond their sporting careers, the Athlete365 Career+ Workshop continues to build on Rwanda’s vision of “Building a Better World Through Sport.”
