‘ The masses can support teams , buy merchandise , buy tickets to games and so on , which fuels mass consumer sponsorship . But first they have to understand the sport and they have to watch it with interest , not as a weekend opportunity to sip champagne while backing the game . It ’ s also a way to get new people into polo – which makes me happy .’
While she isn ’ t playing polo full-time anymore , Neku is still taking on exhibition games and will be playing some of the European season captaining Team Cointreau .
‘ I am an ambassador for Cointreau , which supports women in creative entrepreneurship to empower them to follow their dreams ’ – a cause close to Neku ’ s heart – ‘ but I don ’ t play seasons anymore , as my focus is on being an access to the sport at home , and working – and now learning – about the tech scene .’
At just 28 years old , her list of achievements and accolades is extraordinary ( the latest being that she was named as one of Africa ’ s most promising entrepreneurs on Forbes Africa ’ s ‘ 30 under 30 ’ list earlier this year ). And did we mention she owns a hotel ? Her small boutique hotel is situated in Abuja and is aptly named ‘ Bamboo ’.
Yet Uneku Atawodi remains grounded , humble and as inspiring as ever . Professional polo might be on the back-burner but there ’ s no sign of this dynamic and passionate go-getter slowing down anytime soon . ■
BMW INTERNATIONAL POLO 49