A glowing smile and a gentle cradle of her baby bump told the story even before she spoke, mum-to-be Sheila Wanyonyi is celebrating not just impending motherhood, but a crowning moment in her athletics career.

The Paralympian was named Sportswoman of the Year in the disability category at the Sports personality of the Year Awards (SOYA) 2025 ceremony held at Uhuru Gardens on Friday night, capping a remarkable season that saw her rise to continental prominence.

Currently on maternity leave, Wanyonyi described the award as both a surprise and a powerful affirmation of her journey in sport.

“Winning this award feels like whatever I have been doing in training is bearing fruits. Being recognized gives me more strength that I can be better or maintain the level I am at,” she said.

The javelin thrower enjoyed a stellar 2025 campaign, highlighted by a silver medal at the World Para Athletics Grand Prix in Delhi, India, where she shattered her own African record. Wanyonyi improved her mark from 35.03 metres to an impressive 38.63m, underlining her steady growth on the international stage.

Her final appearance came earlier this year at the Fazza International Championships in Dubai, remarkably, when she was already seven months pregnant. It was a testament to her resilience and commitment, traits that have defined her rise.

“I did not know I would emerge as the Sportswoman of the Year in my category. It came as a surprise. It is an upgrade from being second during the 2024 awards,” she added.

In an emotional moment, Wanyonyi dedicated the accolade to her unborn child, acknowledging the support system that has carried her through both sport and life.

“I have not been alone in this fight for glory. I am dedicating this award to my soon-to-be-born baby. The award means a lot to me. It reminds me where I have come from and shows what dedication and hard work can do.”

Her triumph came against stiff competition from accomplished athletes, including runners Nancy Chelangat and Stency Neema, as well as powerlifters Hellen Wawira and Joyce Nyambura.

Looking ahead, Wanyonyi has her priorities clearly set.

“My plans for this year is preparing to be a mum. I hope to be back in action next year,” she said.

For now, the decorated thrower embraces a new chapter, one where medals and motherhood meet, and where her latest victory may well be her most meaningful yet.