Kumwenda’s rise from village courts to the world stage has been defined by accuracy, composure, and big-match impact. She finished as the tournament’s top goal scorer at the 2014 Commonwealth Games and again at the 2018 Commonwealth Games.

She lit up Gold Coast 2018 as Malawi beat New Zealand 57 to 53, scoring 41 goals. She was Player of the Tournament at the 2015 Netball World Cup and Grand Final MVP in Australia’s elite league in 2020.

In 2025 she signed for West Coast Fever as a replacement player after the birth of her first child, adding a new chapter to a remarkable career. 

What are the standout moments from your time as an athlete in the Commonwealth Games? 

Helping Malawi defeat New Zealand 57–53 at the 2018 Commonwealth Games stands out. I scored 41 goals that day and it was a historic win for our team. It showed what the Malawi Queens could do on the biggest stage. 

How has your view on your sport and accomplishments shifted since your Commonwealth Games experience? 

Over time I have learned to value the journey as much as the medals. Competing at Games and World Cups taught me that the real impact comes from growth and from showing younger players what is possible. 

How has your life and career changed since the Commonwealth Games, both in and out of sport? 

I have played for different teams, including Melbourne Vixens and now West Coast Fever in Super Netball. Away from the court I have put more energy into projects that support my community in Malawi. 

Can you talk about the challenges and victories you have encountered since the Commonwealth Games and how they shaped your journey? 

Injuries tested me and there were moments when my career felt at risk. Those challenges built resilience and mental toughness. Highlights along the way include being named 2015 Netball World Cup Player of the Tournament and 2020 Super Netball Grand Final MVP. 

Have you stayed active in your sport or sports community after the Commonwealth Games? If yes, what role do you play? 

Yes. I am playing for West Coast Fever and I also serve as an ambassador for netball. I love visiting clubs and schools, encouraging young athletes to chase their dreams. 

Tell us about projects or causes you are passionate about or working on. 

I am passionate about giving back. I donate and fundraise to support people in need at home, and I help collect essentials like clothes, books, and first aid kits. 

In what ways have you used your Commonwealth Games experience to motivate and guide the next generation or those facing similar challenges? 

I run clinics, workshops, and one-to-one mentoring. I share what I have learned about hard work, dedication, and believing in yourself. The goal is to help the next generation find confidence through sport. 

Looking back, what lessons or skills from your Commonwealth Games journey have been valuable in your life beyond sport? 

Discipline, teamwork, and handling pressure. Those skills help in every part of life and have guided me through setbacks and new opportunities. 

Can you share a personal or professional achievement post-Commonwealth Games that you take pride in? 

After taking time off for motherhood, being signed as a replacement player for West Coast Fever in 2025 made me proud. It showed my determination to return to top form. 

The recent King’s Baton Relay passed through your country. Did it bring back memories of your own Commonwealth Games journey, and what does the Baton’s message mean to you today? 

It brought back strong memories of representing Malawi. The message of unity and friendship still means a lot. Sport connects people and gives communities something to celebrate together. 

If you could give one piece of advice to athletes preparing for 2026, what would it be? 

Stay focused, work hard, and look after your mind and body. Build a supportive team around you and believe that you belong at that level.