WOA Scholarship changed my life by Ganzi Mugula, Uganda NOA President

25 | 3 | 2026

When I received the news that I had been awarded a full Scholarship by the World Olympians Association in conjunction with the World Academy of Sport to pursue the Postgraduate Certificate in International Sports Management at the University of London, I knew I had been given an extraordinary opportunity. What I did not anticipate was just how profoundly the experience would shape me—academically, professionally, and personally.

The journey was not without its challenges. Balancing the demands of the programme alongside my daily responsibilities required discipline and sacrifice. During the daytime, I studied in the hours I could squeeze in between working from home. When the day was done and the house grew quiet, I often found myself studying after midnight, sometimes until 1 or 2 a.m., on weekdays. Yet, every late night and every stolen moment of study was worth it. I completed the programme with a distinction grade, an achievement I carry with pride, but the true reward lies in the transformation I experienced along the way.

The programme was enriching. It challenged me to think critically about global issues that shape the world of sport, pushing me to interrogate long-held assumptions and engage deeply with perspectives I had not previously considered. One of the most meaningful dimensions of the experience was the deliberate and thoughtful engagement with decolonizing the subject matter—a process that has fundamentally shifted how I understand international sports management and my role within it.

The course was structured around four modules, with two compulsory units: Financial Management and Sports Strategy, Governance & Leadership. For my electives, I chose Sports Event Management and International Sport Development. Each module offered something unique, but I must admit that Financial Management stood out for me—perhaps because of its mathematical nature, which resonated with my background as a mathematician and computer scientist. There was a comfort in the numbers, but beyond that, the module gave me practical tools that I know will serve me well.

The Governance and Sports Event Management modules were equally rewarding. They were not only engaging but also highly applicable, offering insights that seamlessly bridge local and global sports ecosystems. Whether examining governance structures that shape national federations or dissecting the intricacies of delivering major sporting events, I found myself constantly drawing connections between the course content and the realities I see around me.

I am deeply grateful to the World Olympians Association and the World Academy of Sport for believing in me and investing in my growth. This scholarship has done more than advance my education—it has broadened my perspective, deepened my commitment to the world of sport, and equipped me with the knowledge and confidence to contribute meaningfully to the Olympic movement and beyond.

To any Olympian considering a similar path, I say this: the journey may require sacrifice, but the rewards are immeasurable. This experience has left an indelible mark on my life, and I will carry its lessons with me always.

Note: The WOA would like to thank the World Academy of Sport and the University of London for their continued support of Olympians, helping with their educational and professional growth in a real and meaningful way, as demonstrated by Ganzi’s letter above. This year’s scholarship applications will open in May. Stay tuned to our website and social media.