Niece Chisenga: Pioneering Change in Zambian Badminton – A Journey through BWF Events Management Course Level 2
In the heart of Zambia, a rising star named Niece Chisenga embarked on an extraordinary journey that has the power to reshape the landscape of event management in her home country. Her story is a testament to the transformational potential of knowledge and practical skills in the world of sports.
The journey was set in Cairo, Egypt, where the Badminton World Federation (BWF) joined forces with the World Academy of Sport (WAoS) and the Badminton Confederation Africa (BCA) to organize the BWF Events Management Course Level 2. The event, held from October 12 to 14, 2023, coincided with the prestigious Egypt Internationals 2023 under the auspices of the Egyptian Badminton Federation (EBF), which was chosen to host the workshop as part of the enhanced Membership Grant pilot program.
The course was far from a typical classroom experience; it was a unique blend of theory and hands-on practical exercises. Chisenga, along with her fellow participants, delved deep into the intricacies of event management within the context of badminton, covering crucial topics such as event planning, marketing, sponsorship, finance, budgeting, logistics, and operations. The course aimed to equip aspiring sports administrators and professionals with the skills and knowledge necessary to organize and manage badminton events effectively.
“One of the most striking aspects of the course was the international composition of the participants. With representation from countries across Africa, this diversity provided a platform for the exchange of ideas and best practices. It laid the foundation for potential cross-border collaborations in the future, enriching the course content and contributing to the development of a global badminton network. Said Dr Ali Hassaballah the Egyptian Badminton Federation during the opening of the course. He further emphasized the commitment of the EBF and the Egyptian Government through the Ministry of Sports in making sure the enhanced Membership Grant works not only to benefit the rest of the continent but the entire BWF membership.
The timing of the BWF Events Management Course Level 2, in conjunction with the Egypt Internationals 2023, allowed participants like Chisenga to witness the practical implementation of the concepts they had learned. They had the unique opportunity to observe firsthand how a major badminton tournament is organized and executed. This experiential learning was a bridge connecting the dots between theory and practice. Said Sharon Springer the BWF Head of Educational Programmes.
“This has been a very transformative experience,” said Chisenga, as she reflected on her remarkable personal takeaways from the course. I have learned not only the theory but also how to practically utilize and manage volunteers during events. This skill, I have realized, is essential for ensuring the smooth running of events back home. Effectively coordinating and motivating volunteers will become a cornerstone of my event management arsenal.
Furthermore, the course has revolutionized my perspective on event planning and management. With the knowledge and skills, I have acquired, I now fully understand what it takes to organize a successful event. This newfound understanding marks a significant milestone in my professional journey, and I am promising more seamless and successful events on Zambia’s badminton calendar.
“When I go home, she adds, I am determined and committed to putting into practice what I learned during the course, my upcoming project is the Zambia Internationals 2023 in Lusaka, Zambia, where I plan to implement the skills, I have acquired.
I further intend to share the knowledge and experience I have gained with my colleagues in the Zambian Badminton Federation. My goal is to contribute to capacity building, echoing the essence of the BWF Events Management Course Level 2 – knowledge sharing and capacity development for the betterment of the sport”.
Niece Chisenga’s journey through the BWF Events Management Course Level 2 is a testament to the transformative power of education and practical training in the world of sports management. Her story represents a new dawn for badminton in Africa, where events will be executed with precision, efficiency, and an unparalleled passion for the sport.
