In Samoa and across the Oceania region, rugby isn’t just a game – it’s the heartbeat of communities. But for too long, women and girls have had to fight for their place in the sport. Rugby in the Pacific has traditionally been a male-dominated space – on the field, in coaching, and especially in leadership.

Toluiva Keneti, the first woman appointed National Development Manager in the Oceania region, is rewriting that narrative. Her appointment is not just a personal achievement; it is a significant milestone for women in sport across the Pacific.

A champion for inclusion and empowerment

From her past work with Get into Rugby PLUS to her influential contributions with Grassroots to Global, Toluiva has spent years championing inclusivity and empowerment in rugby. Her leadership is rooted in the belief that rugby should be accessible to everyone, regardless of gender, and that true progress comes from creating pathways for women to lead and succeed in the sport.

Tihrani Uluinakauvadra (Tee), Get into Rugby PLUS Coordinator at Oceania Rugby and Toluiva’s former Manager, describes her as a game-changer whose leadership style is both inspiring and transformative. “Get into Rugby PLUS has been transformative for many, including Toluiva. For her, leadership is about creating a supportive environment where people can strive to become the best version of themselves. She believes that values hold us accountable for what we say and do, fostering trust, honesty, unity, and commitment among those she leads.” 

Stepping up from Get into Rugby PLUS, Toluiva brings that same drive to her new role, determined to create more opportunities for women in rugby and leave a lasting impact on the sport.

“Get into Rugby PLUS played a critical role in shaping my career. It gave me the platform to make a difference,” she says. “Now, I want to use my position to change perceptions about women’s participation in rugby and to fight against all forms of violence within the sport. I want every girl to know that her place in rugby is unquestionable, and every woman to see that leadership is within her reach.”

Building a momentum for women in rugby

Toluiva’s dedication to amplifying women’s voices in rugby continues to fuel her vision for a future where inclusion is not just an afterthought but a fundamental principle of the game. She isn’t just pushing for change – she’s building momentum.

She’s making that happen by rallying male allies, raising awareness at the community level, and ensuring women’s presence in the sport pushes beyond visibility. 

“Having male allies in rugby can strengthen the understanding that your support network includes men who are also committed to changing social norms and perspectives.”

Advocating for equal leadership opportunities, Toluiva not only shifts perceptions but also paves the way for future generations of women to excel at every level of the game. 

“I want to see more women stepping into coaching roles, leading our national teams, and taking a place in decision-making rooms. When women take on leadership roles in rugby, they bring fresh perspectives, advocate for inclusivity, and challenge outdated norms. It tells the next generation that their aspirations are valid, that they matter, and that they, too, can lead and shape the future of the sport.” Toluiva says with determination.

Tee emphasises the magnitude of Toluiva’s appointment: “Tolu’s achievement is groundbreaking. It is not just a personal victory but a victory for every woman who has ever doubted her place in rugby. She has shattered a glass ceiling that many thought was impenetrable. Her success will ripple across the region, inspiring countless women to step forward with the belief that they, too, can lead.”

For Toluiva, the journey is far from over. “We’ve made progress, but we’re just getting started. I won’t stop until every girl knows that rugby is for her. Until women are leading, shaping, and driving the sport forward. That’s the future we’re building together.”