For many Nigerian girls, American football might seem out of reach. This International Women’s Day, Brila Media highlights Nancy Damhindi, Head of Legal Compliance and Human Resources at the Nigerian American Football Association (NAFA), as a woman building the future of sport through opportunity and leadership.
She leads the Gridiron Gems Initiative, which aims to introduce American football to 150,000 girls and train 10,000 female coaches and referees by 2030, demonstrating the principle of Give to Gain: Women Building for the Future of Women in Sports.
Through the Gridiron Gems programme, girls gain confidence, teamwork, and leadership skills — and, importantly, see women leading and organizing sport. Nancy’s work ensures that previously closed doors are now open for a new generation of female athletes.
“Being impactful and creating access are my top ‘whys,’” Nancy explains. “If one girl’s life becomes better because of what we build, it’s worth it.”
The work requires patience and dedication. Funding and support can be limited, but Nancy builds her programmes “brick by brick,” focused on long-term, systemic impact.
“I carry my younger self with me — the girl who was told she was meant for more. I’m building the structures I wish existed,” she says.
This International Women’s Day, Nancy Damhindi exemplifies how emerging sports initiatives can empower girls to participate, lead, and thrive, perfectly reflecting Brila Media’s commitment to celebrating women who are giving to gain in sport.
