Leadership Beyond The Game: Reflections from the KUSF Student Athlete Leaders Boot Camp 2026 at DEKUT

The dust of Nyeri has settled, but the beat of the boot camp still reverberates.

“Being at DeKUT—a campus cradled right between the magnificent Aberdares and Mount Kenya—was nothing short of transformative”.

Edwin Epetat
Kaimosi friends University

“The boot camp was a very enriching and eye-opening experience.

I appreciated the emphasis on teamwork, communication, responsibility, and representing students effectively.

In future they should improve on the sleeping area by getting actual camping tents and improve on the hygiene especially the bathrooms for the ladies.”

Bosibori Joyce
KUSF Student Female Rep
JKUAT

“On the first day, the bonfire discussions challenged my thoughts and ideas and encouraged me to look at things from different perspectives.

Overall, the bootcamp was a memorable experience”

Shanice Atieno
Taekwondo Captain
DEKUT

“Attending the 4th Edition of the KUSF Student Athlete Leaders Boot Camp at DeKUT as a student representative provided a vital platform to align sports governance with holistic student well-being.

Conquering the 25 km walk demonstrated the power of resilience, while our key sessions—particularly on boy child empowerment during the bonfire evening and mental health support—highlighted where our student leadership priorities must lie.

Stepping up to represent student interests at the executive level was an honor, and the impact of these dialogues will directly inform our leadership and student advocacy going forward.”

Okello Dancun
KUSF Male Student Representative
Maseno

“I really enjoyed attending the boot camp.

It was an amazing and insightful experience that gave me an opportunity to learn new things, challenge myself, and interact with different people.

The activities were engaging, and the facilitators were supportive, motivating, and knowledgeable.The teamwork, the practical activities, and the lessons we learned throughout the camp was not only educational but also fun and memorable.”

Sylvana Wambui- Handball Captain
KeMU

“The boot camp was a great opportunity to learn, connect, and grow beyond our comfort zones.

From engaging bonfire discussions and sharing experiences to climbing Karibati Hills, every activity came with a valuable lesson on leadership, teamwork, endurance, and perseverance.

Despite a few challenges, including the rains that found their way into our tents, the experience was memorable and worthwhile.

It reminded us that leadership is not only about the position we hold, but also about how we respond to challenges and support one another.

Overall, it was an amazing learning experience, and I am grateful to KUSF for creating such a platform for sports leaders to connect, reflect, and grow.”

John Muchai
Sports Entertainment Secretary
DeKUT

“I return to the University of Embu with renewed commitment, new networks and practical lessons that can contribute to strengthening student leadership and sports development.”

Ann Njoki
Vice President
University of Embu Students Association (UESA)