Wing Commander Uvena Fernandes: A Trailblazer in Sports and Service
In the coastal town of Palolem, Canacona, a young girl named Uvena Fernandes faced early adversity with the loss of her father, a memory too faint to recall. Raised by her aunt while her mother worked abroad to sustain the family, Uvena's childhood in Quepem was marked by resilience. Little did she know that this foundation would propel her into extraordinary roles, from officiating a FIFA World Cup final to serving in the Indian Air Force during critical operations like the Balakot airstrikes.
From Football Fields to Military Bases
Uvena's journey into the limelight began with football, where she represented Goa at the state level and India in international competitions, including the AFC Women's Asian Cup. Her talent shone while playing for the historic Mohun Bagan club. However, in 2003, she made a rare transition, picking up the whistle to become a referee—a path seldom taken by women in India's male-dominated football officiating circles.
Her breakthrough came in 2016 when she officiated the final of the FIFA U-17 Women's World Cup in Jordan, making history as the first Indian, regardless of gender, to serve as an official in a FIFA World Cup final. Reflecting on this milestone, Uvena said, "It was overwhelming to officiate a FIFA final. But I told myself that every match is important." This achievement was just one facet of her multifaceted career.
Service in the Indian Air Force
While pursuing a Master of Laws (LLM), Uvena's visit to the 3 Military Training Regiment in Margao sparked her interest in the armed forces. She cracked the Service Selection Board for both the Indian Air Force and the Indian Army, ultimately joining the IAF as an administrative and air traffic control officer in December 2006. At the Air Force Academy, she broke barriers by becoming the first and only woman cadet appointed as Academy Cadet Captain, the highest cadet position, and won the best-in-outdoor-training award for two consecutive terms.
Her postings spanned Allahabad, Bagdogra, Chabua, Ambala, and currently at Air Force Station Yelahanka in Bengaluru, where she maintains a flawless record of zero incidents and zero accidents—a critical achievement in air traffic control where precision is paramount. Though she cannot discuss specifics, Uvena served at a frontline airbase in North India during the Balakot airstrikes of February 2019, a testament to her dedication.
Training the Next Generation
In her most recent role at the Airmen Training School in Belagavi, Uvena trained the first five batches of Agniveervayu women and men, a pioneering initiative in the armed forces. She expressed gratitude for this opportunity, stating, "I was very fortunate to be selected to train one of the first batches of Agniveers. It was a great opportunity to work with the young Agniveer girls. Many of them continue to stay in touch." Her leadership philosophy emphasizes action over words, as she believes in leading by example to handle pressure effectively.
Balancing Duty and Family
Beyond her professional accolades, Uvena is a mother to a 15-year-old son who represents Goa in BCCI's under-16 cricket. She describes him as both her weakness and strength, a sentiment that underscores her personal sacrifices. Married to an Indian Army officer, their home is built on dual uniforms and careers, navigating the daily demands of duty and family with grace.
Uvena's story is a beacon for Goa and India, showcasing how determination can overcome adversity. From losing her father early to rising as a FIFA referee and IAF officer, she embodies the spirit of breaking norms. As she continues to inspire women in sports and the armed forces, her legacy reminds us that extraordinary paths are forged by those unafraid to challenge the ordinary.
