Langa Mabena
Fungai Muderere
WHAT a well-timed award for Sue Destombes! Destombes, who is the Cosafa executive director was honoured with the prestigious Forbes Woman Africa Sports Award for 2025 at a glittering
ceremony in on Wednesday night, in Pretoria, South Africa.
Interestingly, her honour came in March which is Women’s Month.
Destombes has been recognised for more than 30 years of service to the sports industry and has been a key player in the rapid expansion of COSAFA into an organisation that leads football development in the Southern African region.
Hundreds of men and women have started their international playing careers at Cosafa events and gone on to have stellar careers – all under the stewardship of Destombes among other leaders.
But from the highest level of international football on the pitch, Destombes has also led Cosafa in many grassroots initiatives that have benefitted not just players, but coaches, referees and administrators too across the Southern African region.
“I extend my gratitude to Forbes Woman Africa for this recognition, to my colleagues, mentors, and the incredible team I have had the privilege of working with over the years And it belongs to every woman who fights for her place at the table, and every person who believes in the power of opportunity.
My journey in football started over 30 years ago, first in sports marketing and later in the heart of African football development with Cosafa,” Destombes said.
She added: “Football, to me, is more than just a game. It is a powerful force for change. It has the ability to uplift communities, transform lives, and create
lasting legacies. I have witnessed first-hand how investing in the development of women in sports—both on and off the field—can change the trajectory of not only individuals but entire generations.”
She further said that this recognition was a testament that hard work, resilience, and an unshakable belief in one’s purpose can make a difference.
Destombes said the award should serve as inspiration to women in sports to keep pushing to reach their goals.
“Let us also remind ourselves that our work is far from over. Women across Africa—and the world—still face barriers in sports, business, leadership, and beyond. But we are here today because we refuse to accept limitations. Let this award serve as a call to action: to keep pushing, to keep mentoring, to keep opening doors for those who come after us. Because when one woman rises, we all rise.”
Online Reporter