Colleen is an experienced and well-seasoned administrator with more than 20 years’ involvement in the competitive sports industry and voluntary service to the community; with well-developed communication skills and a sympathetic understanding of people. Colleen has the unique ability to relate to people at all levels and from diverse demographic and socio-economic backgrounds. She particularly enjoys interacting with young people and providing opportunities for them to reach their potential. Colleen is passionate about the role team sport has to play in developing character and citizenry.
In addition to her more recent involvement in sport she have previously owned an Events Management Company; been the director of a private non-profit charity responsible for raising funds and distributing monthly food parcels to over 700 elderly people throughout the country.
Colleen served as Chairman of the St Johns Prep Parents Liaison Committee between 2004-2007 and as Chairman of the St Johns College PLC from 2008-2013 and as Convener of the St Johns Fair.
She is a recipient of the Johannian Award; the highest honor given by the school.
Colleen is the current Special Projects Manager for the Zimbabwe Rugby Union. A position she has held since 2017. Subsequently Colleen has held several roles within sports administration including being the Chairman and Tournament Director of Victoria Falls International Sevens. She is also the former Vice President (2013 – 2014) and Chief Executive Officer of the Zimbabwe Rugby Union -ZRU (2014 to 2016). Under her leadership the ZRU successfully bid for Zimbabwe to host the World Rugby’s U20 Trophy in Harare. The ZRU hosted seven International Teams for a two-week period.
Colleen is a former Executive board member of the Rugby Africa -Cape Town, South Africa (2014 – 2019). Rugby Africa which is responsible for the management and administration of development, training, education and participation of 38-member unions. Rugby Africa is an affiliate of the World Rugby, which is the world governing body for rugby union.
Colleen has also worked in the Agriculture and Hospitality sectors.
Colleen enjoys reading, travelling, cooking, art and design. She is married to Gary de Jong and has two children.