Breaking barriers: Meet ‘Keshii’, the woman steering Mean Machine RFC

The University of Nairobi student is the Team Manager of the iconic Kenya Rugby Championship outfit,  Mean Machine RFC, a role she never imagined until fate and her relentless drive led her there.

Her journey began not on a rugby pitch, but on a basketball court.

“I used to play basketball, then things happened and I couldn’t continue. My coach, Coach Busu, saw my commitment and made me team manager for the UON Dynamites ladies’ basketball team,” Keshy told Citizen Digital.

“Soon after, I was also managing the men’s basketball side, UON Terror. Someone in the sports department noticed my work, and in early 2024, I got a call to join Mean Machine RFC. I started with first aid and players’ welfare, and before long, I was appointed team manager,” she offered.

Her love for rugby was sparked during the National 7s circuit.

“We went for Kabeberi 7s last year, and I thought this is what I’ve been missing. A month later, I got the call to join Machine. It felt like fate.”

But breaking into a male-dominated environment was no easy feat. “My biggest challenge was being looked down upon, especially because of my age and the fact I’m a woman. Some questioned my decisions, but I stayed consistent, transparent, and focused on players’ welfare. Eventually, my work spoke louder than assumptions,” she shared.

Keshii has faced bias head-on: “I’ve heard things like ‘rugby is not favourable for women’ or ‘msichana mdogo kama wewe unawork aje in a rugby circle’. I just stay focused and let my results speak for me,” she voiced.

Her leadership is built on competence, fairness, and clear communication. “I make reliable decisions, pay attention to detail, and treat all players equally. I also listen actively and make sure players feel valued,” she explained.

Balancing school, rugby, basketball, and personal life requires discipline.

“It was hard at first, but I aligned my priorities, created a trusted support circle, and planned my schedule well. Communication is key with both family and friends.”

Her advice to young women aiming for leadership in male-dominated spaces is bold: “Take the leap. Don’t wait for permission. Speak up, show up, and focus on respect over pleasing everyone. Leadership isn’t about fitting in; it’s about standing out with purpose. Your perspective is your power.”

With her vision, Keshii, a 22-year-old Bsc Geology and sports science and management student isn’t just managing Mean Machine, she’s changing the game, she is currently leading the team in the ongoing National 7s circuit and hopes the team will register better performance under her watch.