From Russia with skills: She Cranes' Mutesi sets sights on sports administration role

After completing her one-year Master of Sports Administration Diploma course from the Russian International Olympic University, She Cranes' goal defender Nasimu Mutesi says she is ready to serve in the sports ministry or any federation seeking her expertise.

Mutesi, who multi-tasks in netball, handball, and basketball, also completed her internship at the Fisht Stadium, where she actively participated in preparing proposals to develop the Fisht venue.

She also competed in several games for her university, winning a couple of medals, including one in skiing. She also worked with different Russian sports federations during her time there.

“I have gained a lot of knowledge, and I don't just want to sit on it because I've been working with international students and I've acquired a lot of experience and skills, so I also want to see myself working with any of the federations here or the Ministry of Sport,” Mutesi said.

Nasiimu Muteesi poses with her Russian Diploma and medals alongside Netball Uganda president Jocelyn Ucanda (left), Rashid Mubiru and UOC president Donald Rukare at Lugogo, June 28, 2026. Photo by Michael Nsubuga

“I literally tried out new things because Russia is a big country; they have a lot of different sports disciplines, so I'm someone who wants to try out different things. So, I was in a position to try out other sports, and it came out very well, and I often came out as one of the best.”

She said her university always trusted her as someone disciplined, resilient, eager to try new things, and very hardworking; she was always called upon to compete in various events. She received the scholarship after serving as a FISU student ambassador for Uganda at Victoria University from 2024 to 2025.

“My action plan was about dual careers, the implementation of dual careers in universities across Uganda. So, I was chosen as one of the best students; that's how I got the scholarship. My lectures were in English, but I also undertook Russian lessons.” “I want to thank the UOC president because he was one of the people who supported me when I was leaving the country. And the netball federation and everyone who supported it," Mutesi stated.

She had previously pursued a Bachelor of Business Administration at Victoria University before the opportunity in Russia. She is part of the She Cranes team headed for the Glasgow Commonwealth Games.