Desiree Ellis is the head coach of South Africa’s women’s national team, Banyana Banyana. A former national team captain and multiple CAF Coach of the Year award-winner, she guided South Africa to their first-ever Women’s Africa Cup of Nations title and into the 2023 FIFA World Cup knockout stage. Known for her tactical clarity and leadership, Ellis continues to elevate women’s football across Africa.
 
Ellis has been honored multiple times, including being inducted into the South African Hall of Fame, and recognized as CAF Women’s Coach of the Year on several occasions.
 
Her coaching philosophy emphasizes development, tactical clarity, and resilience — combining her deep experience as a player with a commitment to raising the standards of women's football across Africa.