Clarisse Agbegnenou Inspires African Judoka with Masterclass in Angola

In an unprecedented event in Luanda, Angola, French judoka Clarisse Agbegnenou—six-time world champion and double Olympic gold medallist—led a masterclass to inspire young African judoka.

Supported by the International Judo Federation (IJF), Olympic Solidarity, and the African Judo Union (AJU), this seminar focused on advanced judo techniques and the sport’s core values.

The Masterclass: A Historic First for Africa

For the first time, Luanda hosted an event that brought together some of the brightest talents in African judo.

Clarisse Agbegnenou and Nicolas Messner, Media Director and Head of the IJF’s Judo for Peace programme, led the masterclass.

The African Judo Union and the Angolan Judo Federation handled logistics, making it a true collaborative effort.

Objectives and Goals

The masterclass aimed to give young cadets, many fresh from the African Championships, a chance to learn new techniques and take a values-based approach to judo.

Clarisse talked about respect and humility, stressing that these traits matter just as much as technical skill in becoming a champion.

Clarisse Agbegnenou: A Superstar with a Mission

Clarisse’s session was more than just technical drills; she wanted to inspire and uplift.

*I’m very happy; it was absolutely amazing!* she shared, clearly moved by the atmosphere in Luanda.

Her presence meant a lot to the young judoka, who saw her as a real-life role model.

Clarisse’s Reflections

She thanked everyone who made the event possible—President Marius Vizer, Larisa Kiss, Vladimir Barta, and the leadership of the AJU and Angolan federation.

*I didn’t overthink it before arriving in Luanda. I just wanted to share with the young African judoka,* she said, her humility shining through.

The Role of Nicolas Messner

Nicolas Messner played a crucial part in the masterclass’s success.

He led technical sessions and spoke about judo’s values, offering steady support for Clarisse.

*He experiences intense and fluid moments around the world through judo,* Clarisse noted, appreciating how Nicolas helped her navigate the event’s energy.

A Perfect Partnership

Nicolas thought Clarisse was the perfect person for this mission.

*Her story, her journey, her achievements, and her big heart that beats for Africa made her the ideal person to engage with the 150 cadets on the tatami,* he said.

Impact on African Judo

The masterclass left a mark on the young judoka who attended.

*We Africans sometimes have a tendency to undervalue ourselves but we have strengths, even though people often talk only about our weaknesses,* Clarisse observed.

She pointed out that these young athletes already have natural strength, but what they really need is structured training and discipline.

Future Prospects

AJU President Siteny Randrianasoloniaiko agreed, saying, *Africa holds enormous development potential, both in sport and in education.*

He believes events like this masterclass are vital for nurturing future champions.

Looking Ahead: The Road to Dakar 2026

The upcoming Youth Olympic Games in 2026, set for Dakar, Senegal, mark an exciting chapter for African judo.

Some of the Luanda masterclass participants could compete there, which feels like a significant milestone for the continent’s sports scene.

Clarisse Agbegnenou led a masterclass in Luanda. It felt like more than just a seminar—it sparked real hope and excitement among young African judoka.

The IJF, Olympic Solidarity, and the African Judo Union all backed the event. Their support helped highlight just how much potential African athletes have.

With the Youth Olympic Games in Dakar 2026 on the horizon, you can’t help but wonder what kind of champions might emerge from moments like these.

For more details on this inspiring event, check out the official IJF news article.