Cape Town, South Africa – May 3, 2024 – Desiree Ellis, the reigning CAF Women’s Coach of the Year, has been awarded an Honorary Doctorate by the Cape Peninsula University of Technology (CPUT).
This prestigious recognition honors Ellis’s exceptional contributions to women’s football. She is best known for leading South Africa’s Banyana Banyana team to its historic first-ever Africa Cup of Nations title in 2022.
Ellis’ impressive resume extends beyond the continental championship. She has guided Banyana Banyana to two FIFA Women’s World Cup appearances, secured four COSAFA Women’s Championship victories, and collected a record-breaking four consecutive CAF Women’s Coach of the Year awards. Her dedication was further acknowledged in 2023 when President Cyril Ramaphosa bestowed upon her the Order of Ikhamanga in Gold, a national honor recognizing excellence in South African arts, culture, and sports.
“I am deeply honored and grateful to receive this prestigious doctorate,” said Dr. Ellis. “While it’s a personal achievement, it signifies a major step forward for women’s sport in Africa. My dream is to see the continued growth of women’s football, including the establishment of a professional women’s league across the continent.”
