Women in sport often confront challenges that stretch far beyond the physical demands of competition. 

From unequal opportunities and limited resources to societal expectations and personal biases, female athletes frequently have to work twice as hard to earn recognition and success. 

For 24-year-old korfball player Ruvimbo Jera from Tynwald, South Harare, the journey has been defined by both adversity and resilience.

Ruvimbo’s path has not been without setbacks. At one point, she missed out on national team selection — not because of a lack of ability, but after rejecting a coach’s personal advances.

“It was disappointing, but I did not take it to heart. I moved on. Challenges happen to everyone; what matters is how you respond,” she recalls.

Her experience reflects the difficult terrain many women in sport must navigate, where talent alone is sometimes not enough. Beyond performance, they often face unequal treatment, bias and cultural pressures while trying to pursue their passion.

Yet Ruvimbo found her calling in korfball — a sport she describes as inclusive, diverse and deeply rooted in teamwork. She was introduced to the game in 2017 during high school when two teachers, Mr Machingura and Miss Nyandoro, encouraged netball and boys’ basketball players to try korfball.

“When I started playing, I fell in love immediately. The people are friendly, the teamwork makes it exciting, and I felt like I truly belonged,” she says.

Like many women, balancing personal responsibilities with sport presents another layer of challenge. Although not yet a mother, Ruvimbo helps care for her sister’s children — a role that demands discipline and careful time management.

“Having kids should never stop you from pursuing your sports journey. With support and teamwork, it is possible to manage both and keep chasing your dreams,” she explains.

Her typical day begins at 5am with a morning jog. She then attends to household chores, prepares the children for school, trains at Dzivaresekwa 1 High School and later returns home to cook and assist with homework. It is a routine built on sacrifice and commitment.

That dedication has translated into memorable achievements. Winning the national schools championship in Mutare in 2019 remains one of her proudest moments. In 2020, she also competed against the senior national team as part of the Under-20 squad, narrowly missing out on victory — an experience that strengthened her confidence and deepened her love for the game.

Ruvimbo has clear ambitions for the upcoming season.

“I want to be one of the best shooters and defenders in the league. I also plan to improve my shooting skills and encourage more people to join korfball,” she says.

She is equally passionate about inspiring young girls to embrace the sport.

“Do not hesitate. In korfball, we are a family. Fear should not stop you from trying something that can take you far. Here, we are all brothers and sisters united by our love for the game.”

Beyond personal success, Ruvimbo envisions a brighter future for korfball in Zimbabwe. She dreams of seeing the sport played in every school and community and is committed to spreading awareness through coaching and mentorship whenever opportunities arise.

Being part of a team has also shaped her outlook on life.

“Teamwork has shown me that more can be achieved together than alone. Delegating tasks and working together makes everything easier and faster,” she reflects.

She credits Coach Pedzai as a key influence in her journey.

“His love for the game is contagious, and I respect him greatly. He has motivated me to push harder and aim higher.”

Ultimately, Ruvimbo hopes to represent Zimbabwe on the global stage, including the World Cup, and help put her country on the map in korfball.

Her story is a reminder that while women in sport continue to face structural and personal barriers, passion, perseverance and support can turn obstacles into stepping stones — and dreams into achievable goals.