Kenyan martial arts sensation Faith Ogallo, an Olympian and African medalist, has achieved another significant milestone, being appointed the Environmental Sustainability Ambassador by World Taekwondo, the sport’s global governing body.

The announcement this week solidifies her multifaceted career, which now seamlessly blends athletic excellence with a powerful commitment to global sustainability.

Ogallo, a coach at Kibabii University with African Games and African Championships medals to her name, steps into this global role as World Taekwondo champions its 2022 Sustainability Strategy.

This strategy is built on three crucial pillars: Diversity, Equity & Inclusion (DEI) and Community; Health & Wellbeing (HNW); and Environmental Sustainability (ENV).

World Taekwondo President Chungwon Choue lauded Ogallo as a “visionary leader” whose “knowledge of and experience with empowerment will play an important role” in creating safe spaces within the sport.

The recognition has been met with immense pride across Kenya. Kibabii University Vice Chancellor Prof. Isaac Ipara Odeo hailed it as a “powerful source of inspiration for young athletes across Africa,” underscoring the vital role sports personalities can play beyond the arena.

For Ogallo, the honour transcends personal achievement. “Sports is not just about medals,” she remarked. “It’s about making an impact in people’s lives and safeguarding the future of our planet. That’s the fight I’m in now.”

Beyond her accolades, Ogallo is actively mentoring the next generation, notably coaching Kibabii University’s Criminology student Patience Neema Mwagandi, who recently qualified for the African Championships finals under her guidance.

Looking ahead, Ogallo is spearheading the development of the Faith Ogallo Climate-Smart World-Class Sports Facility at Kibabii University in Bungoma County.

This eco-friendly, state-of-the-art complex aims to set new standards for sports infrastructure in Kenya, fostering both sporting excellence and environmental responsibility.

Ogallo will be fighting for Kenya again at the upcoming African finals in Mali, further cementing her legacy as a champion both on and off the mat.

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