Ellen Chiwenga, a licenced Fifa football and match agent, has spent over two decades in the UK, building a remarkable career that began with a family obligation and evolved into a global mission.
Originally aspiring to be an actress, Ellen moved to Scotland to support her uncle, who owned a football club.
“Why don’t you become an agent?” he asked. That question changed her life.
A new world, a new purpose
Arriving in the UK, Ellen was struck by its diversity. “It felt like I had arrived in a place called the World,” she says.
This multiculturalism inspired her, and she quickly adapted, finding her place in the dynamic world of football. Her perspective on Zimbabwe also evolved.
“Economic challenges have made Zimbabweans more entrepreneurial,” she observes.
“These are the kinds of skills top global companies value—resilience, innovation, and adaptability.”
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Staying rooted in Zimbabwe
Despite her success abroad, Ellen remains deeply connected to Zimbabwe.
Through constant communication with family and friends, she stays informed and engaged.
“No matter where we are, we carry a deep hope for our homeland,” she says. Her projects reflect this commitment.
She’s working with clubs in Zimbabwe and the UK to develop football initiatives that nurture talent, attract investment, and promote tourism.
“Football is a universal language,” she explains. “It’s a powerful platform to reshape Zimbabwe’s global image.”
Leadership aspirations
Ellen’s ambition to lead Zimbabwean sport is clear. She ran for the presidency of the Zimbabwe Football Association (Zifa) and expressed interest in serving as Sport minister.
“I want to bring a clear vision and actionable plans to revive sport, develop infrastructure, and uplift communities,” she says.
Empowering the Diaspora
Ellen believes the UK-Zimbabwe relationship can be strengthened by empowering Zimbabweans to gain skills abroad and return home to build businesses.
She proposes an “Apprenticeship Visa Programme” to facilitate this.
“Most migrants don’t want to leave home — they’re forced by economic necessity,” she says.
“Let’s equip them to return and contribute.”
Cultural identity and pride
Ellen proudly introduces herself as “Ellen from Zimbabwe,” shaped by British training and global experience.
“My journey is a testament to cross-cultural collaboration,” she says. She carries Zimbabwean values with her—especially the power of a smile.
“It’s a gesture of kindness that transcends language,” she says. Whether in London, Cardiff, or Glasgow, she sees Zimbabweans spreading warmth and connection.
She also keeps traditions alive, like the beloved Zimbabwean braai.
“It’s more than food—it’s about community, music, and shared heritage,” she says.
UK-Zimbabwe ties
Ellen sees strong cultural ties between the UK and Zimbabwe. “We speak English, drink tea, and enjoy a traditional breakfast,” she laughs.
“The UK feels like an extension of Zimbabwe.” However, she notes that perceptions of Zimbabwe in the UK remain outdated.
“Many still associate Zimbabwe with Mugabe,” she says. “We need to tell a new story — one of beauty, resilience, and opportunity.”
Diaspora contributions
Zimbabweans in the UK are making a difference. “They’re doctors, entrepreneurs, and philanthropists,” Ellen says.
“They support communities back home through charities and events.”
She also highlights the importance of restoring direct flights between the UK and Zimbabwe.
“It would symbolise renewed commitment and make travel easier for families, businesses, and cultural exchange,” she says.
Football as a force for change
Ellen’s work in football spans continents. She’s organised international matches, facilitated player transfers, and helped clubs secure sponsorships.
She’s also worked with Fifa on initiatives like VAR, youth protection, and head injury prevention. She’s passionate about women’s football, organising friendlies for Zambian and South Africannational teams.
“Women’s football is the biggest growth opportunity in sport,” she says. “Zimbabwe must invest in it.”
Looking ahead, she’s focused on the 2026 Fifa World Cup and building elite football academies across Africa.
“Football can drive investment, tourism, and national branding,” she says. “It’s a global economic engine.”
Advocacy and humanitarian work
Beyond football, Ellen supports causes like Kick It Out, which fights discrimination in sport, and Mission 89, which combats child trafficking in football.
She also serves as a gobal goodwill ambassador for the Bring Hope Humanitarian Foundation, helping build football pitches in refugee camps.
“Football teaches life skills and builds resilience,” she says. “It gives children hope.”
A vision for Zimbabwe’s future
Ellen dreams of returning to Zimbabwe in a leadership role. “I want to give back to both Zimbabwe and the UK,” she says.
“I grew up in a Zimbabwe that was a sporting hub. I want to help revive that legacy.”
She hopes the UK public sees Zimbabwe for what it truly is: “A beautiful, peaceful country full of potential. We’re not stuck in the past—we’re building a future.”
Her message to young Zimbabweans in the UK is clear: “Embrace every opportunity. Be proud of your roots. You are the future of both nations.”
*Ellen Chiwenga is a UK-based licensed Fifafootball and match agent, and the first black female Fifa match agent in the world. With over 20 years of experience, she uses sport as a platform to empower youth, promote Zimbabwe globally, and drive social impact.
- This column is curated by the British embassy in Harare demonstrating the strong people-to-people relations between the UK and Zimbabwe.
