FIFA Master Alumni - Where are they now? - Okenna Onwuzurumba
Okenna Onwuzurumba
Current Position: Zonal Unions Affairs Manager at the Confederation of African Football (CAF)
Year of graduation: 2023 (23rd Edition)
Nationality: French / Nigerian / Sierra Leonean
What does your current role involve?
I am currently working with the Confederation of African Football (CAF) within the Member Associations Division, where our primary mandate is to support all fifty-four Member Associations and contribute to the holistic development of football across the continent, both on and off the pitch.
In my capacity as Zonal Union Affairs Manager, I am responsible for overseeing and supporting the operations of CAF’s six Regional Associations (Zonal Unions), which play a pivotal role in advancing the organization’s football development vision and strategic objectives. The projects undertaken are diverse, ranging from the development of tailored ERP systems, the formulation of strategic plans aligned with CAF’s overarching vision, to ensuring that the Regional Associations organize the minimum required number of competitions.
A core dimension of my role involves strengthening the institutional relationship between CAF, its Member Associations, and its Regional Associations. This includes fostering effective collaboration, facilitating coordination, and promoting knowledge exchange among a diverse range of stakeholders. In parallel, I contribute to the rollout and implementation of key initiatives, including the CAF African Schools Programme, thereby supporting the long-term growth and sustainability of football across the continent.
Which aspects of the FIFA Master course have helped you most in your career?
I developed a deep understanding of the intersectionality that characterizes the sports industry. The structure of the FIFA Master programme, built around three core modules in Management, Law and Humanities of Sport, enables a comprehensive appreciation of how each dimension contributes to and shapes the industry as a whole. The quality of the lecturers, combined with the opportunity to engage with industry leaders, provides invaluable insights and practical guidance for career development.
The FIFA Master challenged what I thought I already knew by exposing me to different perspectives, environments, and real-world experiences across different countries. Being taught through multiple cultural and professional contexts provided a truly 360-degree learning experience. Beyond the knowledge gained, the program helped me build meaningful relationships, both within my cohort and the alumni network, that continuously shaped my journey long after graduation.
What advice would you give to future students?
Make the most of this experience, as it is truly unique and unforgettable. It is essential to fully take advantage of the exceptional quality of the speakers involved in the programme. Engaging with them offers a valuable opportunity to deepen your knowledge, broaden your perspective and gain exclusive insights into the global sports industry.
While the academic component is important and should not be overlooked, the human experience is also an extremely valuable aspect of the FIFA Master programme. Embrace this journey, create lasting memories and build meaningful friendships as these are the elements that will leave a lasting impact and contribute significantly to your personal growth.
Finally, I would say the programme is an extraordinary opportunity that also requires consistent effort and commitment. I encourage anyone undertaking it to continuously nurture their network, remain curious, and stay open to learning—both during the programme and beyond.
The FIFA Master is, above all, a long-term investment in your professional and personal development.
FIFA Master - International Master in Management, Law and Humanities of Sport, ranked Europe's No.1 course a record 13 times by SportBusiness.
Organised by CIES in cooperation with De Montfort University (UK), SDA Bocconi School of Management (Italy) and the University of Neuchâtel (Switzerland).
"CIES, 30 years of impacting how sport is managed worldwide" & "FIFA Master, 25 years of Excellence in Sport Business Education"
