Kenyan player turned coach Audrey Oronda has been selected as the International Olympic Committee (IOC) new IOC Young Leaders for the 2025–2028 cohort.
Oronda is among the 25 Kenya’s top-ranked table tennis players during her time.
The alumnus of St. Monica’s Kitale Girls School, a renowned cradle of women’s table tennis in Kenya, where she discovered her passion for table tennis, with the other selected candidates, Oronda will embark on a four-year journey to develop grassroots sport-based initiatives aimed at addressing social issues in their communities.
The IOC Young Leaders Programme, launched in 2016, empowers young changemakers to harness the power of sport for positive community impact. Every two years, 25 Young Leaders are selected for a four-year period.
With the support of seed funding from the IOC and guidance from a network of mentors, these inspiring individuals have implemented over 140 initiatives, reaching more than 30,000 people. As ambassadors of Olympism, they promote the values of sport for social good year-round.
Reflecting on her selection, Audrey shared: “It’s a humbling feeling to have made it. As a professional table tennis coach, I already serve as a leader and mentor. This opportunity will allow me to enhance my coaching skills, including project management. We are yet to begin on boarding, but we’ll cross that bridge when we get there.”
In the short term, Audrey aims to develop new skills in project management, communication, and leadership. In the long run, she hopes to increase awareness about table tennis and its potential as an inclusive sport.
“I want to show that anyone, regardless of age, gender, or physical ability, can play table tennis. My focus will be on people with Parkinson’s Disease, ensuring inclusivity through the sport.”
Parkinson’s Disease is a neurodegenerative condition caused by low dopamine levels, affecting cognitive and motor functions. Symptoms include tremors, rigidity, and loss of balance. While there is no cure, physiotherapy—often costly—helps manage symptoms. Research has proven that table tennis is an effective alternative therapy for improving motor skills, hand-eye coordination, and cognitive function in patients.
“Table tennis provides a safe space to combat the stigma faced by patients and caregivers. Through this project, I want to offer an affordable alternative therapy, foster peer support, and raise awareness about both the disease and the sport in Kenya.”
Audrey had previously applied for the IOC Young Leaders Programme in 2022 without success. But, as the Swahili saying “Liwalo na liwe” goes, she never lost hope.
“I knew I had improved from my last attempt, so when I submitted my application, I kept my faith in God. The rest is history.”
On her motivation to drive social change, Audrey added:
“You’re never too small to try. Many believe they need an official title to create change, but I’ve learned through coaching that leadership is about passion, not position.”
“This program gives hope to people who aspire to bring positive change to their communities but feel limited by their experience or financial resources. It proves that sport is not just about competition—it is a powerful tool for social impact.”
Audrey strongly believes in balancing academics and sports.
“Many athletes struggle to maintain both, but education plays a crucial role in accessing opportunities like scholarships. It’s all about balance.”
MORE ABOUT AUDREY ORONDA
– Date of Birth: 18th November 1998
– Started Playing Table Tennis: 2012 at St. Monica’s Girls High School, Kitale
– Inspired by: Chemistry teacher-turned-coach, Mr. Justus Gichuki
Career Achievements
– Represented Kenya in the 2014 Africa Youth Games in Botswana (Ranked 10th)
– Certified ITTF Level 1 Coach (2018)
– Passed ITTF Level 2 Coaching Course (awaiting certification)
Academic Background
– Master’s in Parasitology (Pwani University, Kilifi) – Ongoing
– Postgraduate Diploma in Health Research Methods (Pwani University, 2023–2024)
– Bachelor’s in Biotechnology (JKUAT, 2016–2020) – First-Class Honor