Currently serving as the ITF Development Officer for East and Central Africa, a role he has held since 2011, Ntwali has played a pivotal part in transforming the tennis landscape across the region.
His work includes supporting national federations, organizing elite tournaments, and spearheading programs like the Junior Tennis Initiative.
In Rwanda, Ntwali has previously served as Technical Director of the Rwanda Tennis Federation, national coach, Davis Cup captain, and Executive Director of the National Olympic Committee. He also led the national delegation as Chef de Mission during the 2008 Beijing Olympics.
Ntwali expressed delight at receiving the International Trailblazer award from the Tennis Black List.
'I am proud, humbled and filled with gratitude. As someone who has dedicated more than a decade to the development of tennis in East and Central Africa, this recognition is deeply meaningful, not just for me personally but for the entire region.
'It shines a light on the often-unseen efforts taking place to grow the game in communities where tennis is still emerging.'
The Tennis Black List, launched in 2022, is the only global platform focused on recognizing and celebrating Black and mixed-Black contributions to tennisâ€"from grassroots to professional levels.
Inspired by similar initiatives in football and rugby, the platform seeks to create a legacy of visibility and impact.
Founders Anne-Marie Batson and Richard Sackey Addo emphasized the movement's legacy.
'Tennis Black List is creating space for Black and mixed-black heritage excellence to be seen, honoured and remembered across all areas of tennis.'
With this award, Thierry Ntwali joins a growing list of global changemakers using tennis as a tool for transformation and inclusion.
IGIHE
