Ugandan volunteers shine at Rhine-Ruhr 2025 FISU World University Games

A team of seven Ugandans proudly served as part of the 12,000-strong volunteer force at the Rhine-Ruhr 2025 FISU World University Games in Germany, contributing across key areas such as protocol, ticketing, delegate support, and spectator services.

Aupal Emmanuel, a FISU Student Ambassador and Federation of African University Sport (FASU) representative served on the protocol team, drew on his experience to represent Uganda with distinction.

“It meant a lot to me as an individual. I got to represent my flag in a different way beyond competing as an athlete,” Aupal said. 

“I networked with international volunteers, officials, and members of the FISU family. These connections can open future doors,” he acknowledged.

Aupal encouraged youth back home to seize new opportunities. 

“Many think volunteering is a waste of time, but it is full of potential. Do not be afraid to try,” he advised.

 
Immaculate Nnanyonyi, who worked as a Delegate Support Volunteer, once had dreams of a rugby career. 

A serious injury ended her playing journey, but she stayed close to the game through leadership roles.

“I now manage the Makerere University Ladies Rugby Team and Ewes Rugby Club and serve on the Uganda Rugby 7s operations team,” she said. 

“Being here in Germany is a proud moment. It is proof that when one door closes, sport offers many others,”

Other volunteers included Birungi Mable Dative,  Anna Mwebe Nassimbwa, Jovan Brian Kaye and Moses Kasule, all of whom supported spectator services ensuring safe, welcoming, and efficient experiences for the thousands of fans who attended the Games.

Henry Mary Lutaaya, a Sports Tutor at Uganda Martyrs University, served in the ticketing department. 

For him, volunteering was an opportunity to benchmark best practices in sports event management.

“I was honored to be selected,” he said. “I have learned a lot about event planning, athlete welfare, and the setup of international games,” Lutaaya shared. 

“I plan to apply this knowledge to improve our sports systems back at the university,”.

Beyond their assigned duties, the Ugandan volunteers took pride in waving their flag on a global stage and forming lasting friendships.

“The clock keeps ticking,” Aupal reflected. 

He also  stressed that  when we spend time doing what we love and doing it togethe, it is well spent.