Siphakeme .Mnindwa
Innocent Kurira,Innocent.kurira@chronicle.co.zw
JOYCE Kapota is no stranger to breaking down barriers. As a woman in a male-dominated industry, she has faced numerous challenges throughout her football career. Yet, she remains undeterred, driven by a passion to create positive change and promote equality in the sport.
Kapota’s journey in football began in 2012 when she joined CAPS United FC as a communications manager. Since then, she has worked tirelessly to promote women’s football, challenge stereotypes, and advocate for greater inclusion and diversity in the sport.
Kapota is running for the position of vice president of Zifa and is promising to bring about a change in how the game is managed in the country. The elections are set for January 25, with one of the two vice-presidential slots reserved for a woman. According to Article 38 of the amended constitution, the executive committee shall comprise 11 members, at least three of whom shall be women. Kapota has her sights set on that vacancy.
“I am results-oriented and will use my portfolio to bring about tangible change and results. I have always been a firm believer in the boundless potential of a determined, dedicated and driven individual. Limitations are meant to be breached, stereotypes are meant to be challenged, and ceilings are meant to give us targets to exceed. My own personal and football journey has been a testament to these ideals.
“I have managed to not only find my feet but to thrive, blossom and excel in a profoundly challenging yet exhilarating male-dominated industry. Cognisant of my influence, impact and passion, considering my experience and counting on my expertise, skills, knowledge and social capital, I decided to stand for election as Zifa Vice-President,” said Kapota.
Kapota’s intention is clear.
“My intention is to inspire not just women but anyone excluded from pursuing and attaining their legitimate desires. I hope to inspire more women to take up space in industries traditionally the domain of men.
“My desire is to help expand options for women to aspire to and create role models for younger generations. Through my work, I hope to create more avenues that women can look up to and that they can lead at the highest level in industries traditionally not the domain of women.
“My objective is to influence football policy at the highest echelons in order to benefit marginalised and excluded demographics and to reignite the nation’s interest in our football,” said Kapota.
Her experiences have not been without challenges. Kapota has faced resistance, particularly in the early days of her career.
“I was barred from certain areas and activities because I’m a woman. It was frustrating, but it also motivated me to push for change,” she said.
Kapota’s determination has paid off. She has become one of the most influential women in Zimbabwean football, serving on various committees and boards, including the Zifa Restructuring Committee and the Caf Club Licensing Compliance Committee. Her work extends beyond the football pitch.
Kapota founded and runs Amor’Sport, a multi-sport organisation that leverages the power of sport for community development. Through her consultancy, she aims to promote social change, challenge inequalities, and create opportunities for marginalised groups.
Her mission is clear: to create a more inclusive and equitable sports industry in Zimbabwe. She believes that football can be a powerful tool for social change, promoting values such as teamwork, discipline, and respect.
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