Menzies Aviation Backs Transformative Rugby Initiative in Kenya

Menzies Aviation has partnered with ChildFund Rugby to support the delivery of its award-winning Pass It Back initiative in Kenya, in collaboration with Kenya Rugby Union.

Pass It Back is a globally recognised initiative that introduces young people to World Rugby’s non-contact T1 rugby and provides them with critical life skills to thrive – both on and off the field. The partnership represents a powerful step forward in using sport to creating lasting social impact.

As the initiative celebrates its 10-year anniversary, Kenya joins a growing list of countries globally, using rugby to promote equality, inclusion and leadership. By integrating life skills learning with skills development, Pass It Back ensures rugby is not just played – but also used as a tool to inspire and empower young people.

Over the next two rugby seasons, more than 250 players, aged 11-16, will participate in weekly, structured 90-minute sessions led by youth coaches aged 16-25, building community teams that promote both sport and social development. The program blends rugby skills and life lessons that will stay with them far beyond the pitch, exploring topics such as managing emotions, building positive relationships, challenging harmful norms and stereotypes, and supporting personal growth and well-being.

Kenya Rugby will lead the delivery of Pass It Back, training youth coaches, with a commitment to ensuring more than 50% female participation and leadership across the initiative.

Thu Le, Global Partnerships and Impact Manager, ChildFund Rugby, said: “Rugby for us has always been more than a sport – it is a platform for growth, leadership, and opportunity. With Pass It Back, more young people will have access to structured, safe, and inclusive learning. As we celebrate a decade of impact, we are excited to partner with Menzies Aviation and the Kenya Rugby Union to support game growth in Kenya from the grassroots up.”

John Geddes, Chief Governance & Sustainability Officer & Company Secretary, Menzies Aviation, said: “We’re proud to stand alongside ChildFund Rugby and Kenya Rugby Union, championing this incredible initiative, to empower young people to develop critical life skills while fostering a love for rugby and community. Through collaboration, we are helping to build pathways to brighter futures for young people by ensuring they have access to sport, education and opportunities for leadership. We’re thrilled to support a program that develops both athletic and essential life skills. It’s about building future leaders – on the field, in the classroom, and beyond.”