\n<\/p>\n
Maniragena’s journey into elite cycling began when she joined Bikes for Future, an all-female team backed by humanitarian group Plan International and Learn Work Develop (LWD), a non-profit organisation implementing the scheme<\/p>\n
The initiative seeks to challenge gender stereotypes and empower young Rwandan women through sport.<\/p>\n
“What makes Olivia unique is her determination,” says her coach Niyonsaba Elidad. <\/p>\n
“She knows what she wants. Every time we train, she gives it her all.”<\/p>\n
Women’s cycling in Rwanda is still in its infancy and often marginalised in a sport long viewed as the domain of men.<\/p>\n
“In the past, if a girl was seen riding a bike, people would ridicule her. They would say, ‘You are not a boy, why are you cycling?'” explains Mbabazi Fillette, programs and partnership manager at LWD.<\/p>\n
“If they saw a young girl getting a bike and riding it, it would be an abomination.<\/p>\n
“We’re proving that girls can not only ride, but also compete at the highest level.”<\/p>\n
At the Bugesera Cycling Centre, Maniragena has gained more than racing skills. She has also mastered bike mechanics.<\/p>\n
“I can dismantle and reassemble a bike in five minutes,” she says. “It’s something I truly value. It brought back the hope I had lost in my life.”<\/p>\n
While other members of the 30-strong team have specialised in things like welding, tailoring and communications, Maniragena’s trade has become her financial lifeline.<\/p>\n
“What keeps me going is knowing I can earn an income.<\/p>\n
“On a good day in the bike shop, I make about $7. When I race, I can earn even more.”<\/p>\n
But financial barriers continue to pose a significant challenge.<\/p>\n
A decent racing bike costs between 60,000 and 150,000 Rwandan francs (approximately $42 to $104) – an unattainable amount for many from low-income backgrounds.<\/p>\n
Despite these obstacles, the passion for cycling among Rwanda’s youth continues to grow.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n