"That's the most important thing for me"
Ziana Butt has redefined what it means to be a netball player in England.
As the first player of Pakistani heritage to represent the country in the sport, she has not only made history but has also worked tirelessly to ensure netball becomes more inclusive.
Her achievements on the court are matched by her dedication off the court, where she is an advocate for diversity and accessibility in sport.
Ziana’s journey is an inspiring tale of breaking barriers, shattering stereotypes, and paving the way for future generations.
Her relentless efforts have earned her national recognition, including the British Empire Medal (BEM) and numerous accolades.
We explore Ziana Butt’s netball career, her passion for inclusivity and her work in STEM, highlighting the depth of her impact.
Breaking Barriers in Netball
Ziana’s love for netball began at a young age. She rose through the ranks to achieve a milestone that would cement her name in the sport’s history.
At just 16, she was selected for England’s NETS Under-21 squad, making her the first Pakistani-heritage player to wear the national colours.
She has represented the national team over a dozen more times and has also been a part of England’s mixed squad.
Her club career has seen her play for Saracens Mavericks Under-21s and the Academy Netball Club, where she continues to develop as a key player.
Ziana Butt’s role in netball extends beyond playing.
She is also a netball coach, regularly working with schools and community groups to promote the sport.
Her sessions focus not only on skill development but also on ensuring netball is accessible to children from all backgrounds.
She has been a voice for change, championing the need for diversity and visibility in the sport.
A Champion for Diversity & Inclusion
Ziana Butt’s journey in netball was not without challenges.
Growing up in Ilford, she was often the only South Asian player at tournaments, which highlighted the lack of representation in the sport.
This experience fueled her passion for volunteerism and advocacy.
She started volunteering at just 10 years old, determined to be the role model she never had growing up.
As an England Netball Young Volunteer and Youth Sport Trust Forum representative, Ziana actively advises schools on their sports and recreation policies.
Her work extends to co-authoring Aisha’s Netball, a book designed to encourage more South Asian children to participate in the sport.
Through her various initiatives, she has worked to shift perceptions and make netball a more inclusive space.
Her commitment to diversity has not gone unnoticed.
She was named Young Netball Volunteer of the Year at the National ONE Awards, where she was celebrated for her efforts in challenging stereotypes and inspiring future generations.
Speaking about her motivation, she said:
“I volunteer because I love it. I love seeing the kids have fun.
“That’s the most important thing for me – seeing the kids have fun and knowing that what I’m doing is having an impact on them.”
Recognition & Accolades
Ziana Butt’s work in netball and diversity was formally recognised when she was awarded the British Empire Medal in the 2023 New Year’s Honours List.
This honour highlighted her significant contributions to the sport and her efforts in promoting inclusivity.
In addition to this honour, she was named Volunteer of the Year at the 2023 London Sport Awards, an annual event that celebrates those making a difference in grassroots sports.
Upon receiving the award, Ziana expressed her gratitude and her ongoing commitment to making sport more accessible:
“I feel incredibly honoured to win – I felt incredibly honoured to even be in the final.
“There are so many amazing people out there who do so much incredible volunteering.”
“The award isn’t just for me – it is an opportunity to continue making sport more accessible, continue making it a more inclusive environment, and continue encouraging more South Asian youngsters to take up sport.”
Her work has also led her to high-profile engagements, including being shortlisted for Volunteer of the Year at the 2023 Community Sport and Recreation Awards.
At the event, held at Twickenham Stadium, she had the opportunity to meet HRH the Duke of Edinburgh, further expanding her platform to advocate for change in sports.
Off-Court Work in STEM
Ziana Butt may be a trailblazer in netball but she is also a STEM trailblazer off the court.
She graduated with a first-class degree in Digital and Technology Solutions from the University of East London.
Ziana now works at Accenture as a Program and Project Management Analyst.
Her academic foundation in computer science studied at both GCSE and A-level, has set her up for success in the technology sector.
Ziana Butt’s story is one of perseverance, passion, and impact.
She has not only broken barriers as a netball player but has also worked tirelessly to ensure that sport is welcoming to all.
Her advocacy for diversity, her volunteer work, and her success in STEM make her an inspiration to young athletes and professionals alike.
Through her dedication, Ziana continues to show that representation matters.
Whether on the netball court, in schools, or in the technology sector, she is making a lasting difference.
As she forges ahead, her legacy will undoubtedly inspire the next generation to dream big, challenge norms, and strive for excellence in all fields.
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