As a public relations professional, Barbara Kokonya never dreamed of working in sports. Although she loved playing sports as a child, sports administration careers for women were rare. “I fell into a sports career by total accident while working for a major PR firm. The company assigned me to do PR for the Kenya Cricket Association. It changed my focus. I didn’t plan to go into sport, but it has been the best thing that has happened to me.” 

Barbara became the first female sports administrator for rugby and cricket. After rebuilding the Kenya Rugby Union and creating a semi-professional national men’s team, Barbara was pursued by Cricket Kenya to be the general manager and restore their status in the International Cricket Council. In her current role as a Consultant for the International Rugby Board, Barbara is working with Associated Member Unions on their governance, administration, and strategic planning development with a special emphasis on advancing the women’s game. 

Barbara’s PR background has allowed her to launch successful endeavors, such as Very Chic, an entity which works with organizations to enhance their brand’s identity, Girls Let’s Play, a mentorship and empowerment program, and the Consultative Forum for Women in Sports.