At just 21, Rwandan cyclist Olivia Maniragena is preparing to compete at the UCI Road World Championships in her homeland next month, aiming for a spot in the inaugural women’s Under-23 race. Her road to this moment has been anything but easy. Orphaned at 14, she became the sole caregiver for her three siblings while navigating the challenges of teenage motherhood, having two children before turning 20. Abandoned by her partner shortly after the birth of her second child, Maniragena was left to raise five children alone.
Cycling, which she first learned at age seven, became her lifeline. It started as a way to fetch water, collect firewood, and run errands, but evolved into a source of happiness, a relief from anxiety, and a path to independence. Her talent was noticed when she joined Bikes for Future, an all-female team supported by Plan International and Learn Work Develop (LWD), which empowers young Rwandan women and challenges gender stereotypes in a sport traditionally dominated by men.
Despite social ridicule in the past for girls on bicycles, Maniragena’s determination stood out. In just 15 months, she went from a novice to a local champion, winning titles in the Rwanda Youth Racing Cup. Beyond racing, she has mastered bike mechanics able to dismantle and reassemble a bike in just five minutes turning her skills into a financial lifeline by earning income from bike repairs and competitions.
Financial hurdles remain, as quality racing bikes cost between $42 and $104, a steep price for many from low-income backgrounds. Still, her coach Niyonsaba Elidad believes she has the potential to become a national champion if given the right support. Whether competing in the U23 race or a social event linked to the championships, Maniragena represents the growing passion for women’s cycling in Rwanda and a new generation of athletes breaking barriers.
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