Rodrigues Niyongere: Coaching for an inclusive community
Anyone who has started a new life in a new country, will have likely felt overwhelmed, even intimidated – especially if they are faced with so much that is new and unknown. Then, when you find something familiar that gives you back some sense of your identity, it can be a huge advantage that can lead to feelings of contentment and belonging.
This was a similar experience for Rodrigues Niyongere. A young, football-loving boy from East Africa, Rodrigues has used his passion to not only find his place within Perth culture, but make connections and create opportunities for others in the community.
“I came to Australia on my own to join my family who migrated here before me. Leaving Burundi was a huge change – a new language, a new culture, a completely different way of life. At first, it was overwhelming, but over time I found my place, especially through football. Football became my anchor, the thing that kept me grounded and gave me a way to connect with people from all walks of life. What I love most about Australia is its diversity and the way sport has the power to bring people together, no matter where they come from.”
Through his love of football and connecting with people, Rodrigues became a community coach with Football Futures Foundation, a commitment that saw him named 2025 Young Community Citizen of the Year in City of Bayswater. Living with cerebral palsy, he has also represented Western Australia in the National Para Football Championships and has participated in several Pararoos training camps.
“I coach not because I think I’m good at football, but because it makes me feel free and alive. There’s nothing better than seeing players smile, whether they live with a disability like I do or face other challenges. For that short time on the pitch, they can forget their struggles and just feel the joy of the game, and that’s a gift for both of us. Through my work with Football Futures Foundation, I help run inclusive programs, mentor young players, and support our peer mentor program participants to grow in confidence and skill. Every session is about building people up and showing them what they are capable of.
“For me, coaching and mentoring is my way of giving back to Australia for everything it has given me since the day I arrived, and for the opportunities still to come. I also want to share my culture, my story, and my belief that anyone, no matter their background, can achieve their dreams. I especially want to inspire my African brothers and sisters here in Australia to believe in themselves and to know that with hard work, commitment, and self-belief, anything is possible.”
While there are many young West Australians who do participate in their community in some way, starting out and knowing what to do can seem daunting, even preventing them from getting started. Rodrigues offers some advice on how to not let this be a barrier.
“Start small. Volunteer, help out at a local event, or join a community club. Be genuine and consistent – even the smallest actions can make a big difference over time.”
Like many people, Rodrigues doesn’t do what he does for recognition. However, he agrees that, when someone is making the time and effort to give back, it’s important to recognise them, especially young people.
“Recognition shows young people that their efforts matter. It motivates them to keep going and inspires others to step up, get involved, and make a positive impact in their own way.”
A humble individual with a deep connection to community coaching and all that it offers, Rodrigues shared his hopes and dreams for the future.
“In the next 5–10 years, I want to keep coaching and creating opportunities in sport for young people who might otherwise be overlooked. I hope to build a stable future for myself so I can give back on an even bigger scale reaching more communities and changing more lives through the game I love.”
If you know someone who is helping towards more inclusive and accessible communities, nominate them for a Community Citizen of the Year Award at citizenshipawards.com.au.