Beyond the Olympics.

Kirsty is a role model and hugely inspirational figure for many women and young people across Africa and the world of sport. Her memberships on the International Olympic Committee, World Anti-Doping Agency, International Surfing Federation and FINA are playing a key part in expanding the global Olympic movement and the development of sport. 

Affectionately known as Zimbabwe's 'National Treasure' and 'Golden Girl', Kirsty continues to invest her time and experience in Africa. She is a member of the ANOCA Athlete's Commission, Vice-President of the Zimbabwe Olympic Committee, provides coaching and swimming lessons at her non-profit organization, the Kirsty Coventry Academy, and has recently launched a program for low-income and underserved areas - HEROES: Empowering children through sport.

 

Global Impact

NEWS
The International Olympic Committee
The International Olympic Committee

In 2012, Kirsty was elected to the International Olympic Committee's Athletes' Commission, a tremendous honor with a enormous responsibility. She will serve as a Member for eight years.

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FINA
FINA

As an athlete committee member Kirsty is responsible for bringing the input of athletes’ experience to FINA and to collaborate in the Technical Rules proposals and amendments for each discipline, and to be in contact with athletes and bring forward their suggestions and remarks. Find out more here.

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World Anti-Doping Agency
World Anti-Doping Agency

The World Anti-Doping Agency was founded with the aim of bringing consistency to anti-doping policies and regulations within sporting organizations and governments across the world. Kirsty sits on the Foundation board and on the Athletes Committee.  

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International Surfing Association
International Surfing Association

As an aquatic fanatic and Vice-President of the International Surfing Federation, Kirsty is actively responsible for helping develop access to this sport, because for the first time in history, surfing will be included in the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games. 

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African Heart

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Minister of Youth, Sport, Art and Recreation
Minister of Youth, Sport, Art and Recreation

Kirsty was appointed as Minister of Youth, Sport, Art and Recreation by the President of Zimbabwe in September 2018, four days after she found out she was pregnant with her first child. As an independent person who has never before been involved with politics, it came as a surprise but an enormous honour to serve.

Kirsty Coventry Academy
Kirsty Coventry Academy

The Kirsty Coventry Academy offers affordable swimming lessons of the highest standard. Our coaches bring a high level of energy and passion that is important for keeping our lessons fun but always keeping safety as our first priority.

HEROES
HEROES

HEROES is a Kirsty Coventry Academy initiative that provides free sporting activities to children in underserved areas of Zimbabwe. It is a community-based program that leverages the power of sport as an effective method for tackling critical issues in these areas. By utilizing existing schools, sports centres, fields, and volunteer coaches we create a safe and fun environment where children can play sport.

Drowning Prevention
Drowning Prevention

According to the WHO, over 350 000 people die from drowning every year, over half are among those under 25 years of age. Kirsty has made it her mission to help decrease drowning statistics. Swimming is the only sport that can save a life, which is why the Kirsty Coventry Academy’s Learn-to-Swim and HEROES programs teach children about water safety and drowning prevention.

Zimbabwe Olympic Committee
Zimbabwe Olympic Committee

Kirsty’s role as Vice President of the Zimbabwe Olympic Committee gives her the opportunity to work closely with all stakeholders to help ensure Zimbabwe athletes are fully supported. Her 20 plus years of being an International Elite Athlete has given her a unique perspective and she is looking forward to imparting that knowledge to Zimbabwe's future sporting stars. Kirsty will also be the Chef De Mission for the Zimbabwe delegation at the Youth Olympic Games in Buenos Aires in 2018.