As India celebrates International Women’s Day, the remarkable journey of Uvena Fernandes stands as a powerful testament to resilience, determination and the boundless potential of women.
From a young girl growing up in the coastal village of Palolem in Goa to becoming an international footballer, a historic World Cup official, a decorated officer in the Indian Air Force and a devoted mother, Fernandes’ life story reflects courage, perseverance and an unwavering pursuit of excellence.
Her achievements send a strong message to young girls across India- that dreams and responsibilities can coexist, and that true leadership lies not only in reaching the top but also in inspiring others along the way.
Born on May 8, 1981, in Palolem village in Canacona, Fernandes faced adversity early in life. She lost her father at the age of two, and with her mother working abroad to support the family, she was raised by her maternal aunt. Her sporting talent became evident during her school years at Pope John XXIII High School, where she emerged as one of the fastest sprinters in the state. While athletics brought her early recognition, football soon became her true calling.
Fernandes went on to represent Goa at the state level and India internationally as a footballer. During her school, she also excelled in several other sports, including basketball, handball, volleyball, tennikoit and athletics.
Her football career saw her represent the iconic Mohun Bagan club and play for India in major tournaments, including the AFC Women’s Asian Cup. In 2003, she began a new chapter in the sport as a referee- a role demanding authority, discipline and composure. Her dedication led to a historic milestone in 2016 when she became the first Indian, man or woman, to officiate the final of a FIFA World Cup tournament. She also became the first Indian woman to officiate at the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup and the FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup, achievements that brought global recognition to Indian football.
After illustrious 11-year tenure as a FIFA Assistant Referee, Fernandes retired from international refereeing in July 2024. She now serves as a mentor, referee instructor and assessor, guiding the next generation of football officials in India.
Parallel to her sporting achievements, Fernandes built an equally distinguished professional career in the armed forces. She was commissioned into the Indian Air Force on December 15, 2006, as an Administrative and Air Traffic Control Officer.
During her training at the Air Force Academy, she made history by becoming the first woman cadet to be appointed Academy Cadet Captain, the highest cadet appointment, and also won the award for best performance in Outdoor Training for two consecutive terms.
As an Air Traffic Control Officer, she has served at several key stations including Allahabad, Bagdogra, Chabua and Ambala, and is currently posted at Air Force Station Yelahanka.
Fernandes has also played a significant role in sports administration within the armed forces. As the Air Force Sports Nodal Officer at Hindan, she led teams in athletics, golf and shooting. Later, as an instructor at the Airmen Training School in Belagavi, she trained the first batches of Agniveervayu personnel, including women.
Academically accomplished, she holds degrees in B.Com, LLB, B.P.Ed and a Master’s in Human Resource Management, and is currently pursuing a PhD. She has also completed the NIS Football Coaching Certificate Course and a Diploma in Sports Nutrition. Since 2007, she has also been part of the organising team of the prestigious Subroto Cup football tournament and has contributed to the organisation of the World Military Games.
Her contributions have been widely recognised. She received the Chief of Air Staff Commendation in 2021 and was felicitated by the Raksha Mantri and the Chief of the Air Staff in 2023. She was also honoured by the Delhi Commission for Women for inspiring and empowering women.
Among her other honours are special recognition from the All India Football Federation in 2017, appreciation from the Asian Football Confederation in 2016 and the prestigious Bakshi Bahaddar Jivabadada Kerkar State Award from the Government of Goa in 2018. (IAF)
