Shaunagh Brown’s story is anything but ordinary. Raised in Peckham, she became a British Gas engineer, commercial diver and firefighter, while also representing England in the hammer throw at the Glasgow 2014 Commonwealth Games.

At 25, with no experience, she took up rugby and, just two years later, made her debut for the Red Roses. She went on to win 30 caps for England, secure two Grand Slams and play in a World Cup final. Now retired from international rugby to focus on driving change off the field, Shaunagh is a role model and champion for diversity and girls in sport.

Shaunagh said:

“Growing up, I never wore dresses or had to wear a restrictive school uniform: I was free to run and roll around and play however I wanted. That freedom shaped who I am and where I am today. Sport gave me even more space to be myself, push my limits, and learn that barriers are just invitations to improvise.

"But too often, there are economic and social challenges that hold girls back, and even more so for Black girls, leading them to drop out of sport and miss out on the benefits it provides. Every child deserves that same chance to play, feel like they belong and find out what they’re capable of.”