Shaunagh Brown – The Fearless Game Changer of English Rugby and Beyond
Who Is Shaunagh Brown?
Shaunagh Jordan Brown, born on 15 March 1990 in London, United Kingdom, is one of England’s most remarkable multi-talented sportswomen. Known primarily for her career as an England rugby union player and former hammer thrower, Brown’s journey reflects grit, transformation, and empowerment. At 35 years of age, she continues to inspire countless people as a keynote speaker, host, and advocate for diversity and inclusion.
Her unique story stands apart in British sport — not only because of her late start in professional rugby but because of how she turned every chapter of her life into an example of resilience, courage, and authenticity.
Shaunagh Brown’s Early Life and Family Background
Shaunagh Brown was born and raised in Kennington, South London, to a Jamaican father and an English mother. She has often spoken about her mixed-race background, growing up in a single-parent household, and facing financial struggles while still pursuing her ambitions.
Her early years were far from easy, but they shaped the foundation of her work ethic and character. From a young age, Shaunagh was deeply inspired by her mother’s strength and determination, values that she would carry into every profession she later embraced.
Shaunagh Brown’s Height, Weight, and Athletic Build
Standing at an impressive 1.78 metres (5 ft 10 in) and weighing approximately 95 kilograms, Shaunagh Brown embodies the athleticism and power that define elite sport. Her build and physical conditioning reflect years of dedication across multiple disciplines — from athletics and firefighting to professional rugby.
Her physique became not only a symbol of strength but also a statement of representation. Brown has been vocal about challenging outdated stereotypes of how women’s bodies “should” look, championing the belief that strength and femininity coexist beautifully.
Shaunagh Brown’s Journey in Athletics
Before making her mark in rugby, Shaunagh Brown was already a recognised athlete. She represented Great Britain and Northern Ireland in the hammer throw and competed in the 2014 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow. Her personal best throw reached 66.85 metres, an achievement that placed her among the top British hammer throwers of her generation.
Her success in athletics demonstrated her natural power and discipline, but it also gave her the foundation that would later make her one of the most physically dominant forwards in women’s rugby.
Shaunagh Brown’s Rugby Career: England and Harlequins
From Firefighter to England Rugby Star
What makes Shaunagh Brown’s rugby journey extraordinary is that she didn’t pick up the sport seriously until her mid-twenties. After careers as a gas engineer, commercial diver, and firefighter, she began training with Harlequins Women in 2017. Within just two years, her talent, athleticism, and leadership caught the attention of national selectors.
Shaunagh Brown and England Rugby
Shaunagh made her England debut in 2017 against Canada, representing the Red Roses. Over the next five years, she earned more than 30 international caps, helping England secure multiple Women’s Six Nations titles and Grand Slams.
Her time with England wasn’t just about medals — it was about impact. Brown became a symbol of what it means to break barriers in women’s sport. She used her voice to advocate for racial equality, gender parity, and representation within rugby, both on and off the pitch.
Shaunagh Brown and Harlequins Women
At the club level, Brown played for Harlequins Women between 2017 and 2023, contributing to one of the team’s most successful eras. She helped Harlequins win the Premier 15s title and inspired countless young players through her fearless performances and down-to-earth mentorship.
She retired from professional rugby in December 2022, leaving behind a legacy defined by courage, authenticity, and empowerment.
Shaunagh Brown’s Partner and Family Life
Shaunagh Brown is married to Chrispin “Benjii” Benjamin, a CAD and Construction Technology Trainer at MidKent College in Gillingham and a graduate of the University of Portsmouth. She affectionately refers to him as Benjii, and the two share a strong, supportive partnership rooted in mutual respect and humour.
Benjii, described by Shaunagh as “brains as well as beauty,” is pursuing a Master’s degree focused on sustainable housing (NZEB Delivery in the UK Housing Sector). Shaunagh often celebrates his achievements publicly, showing her signature warmth and pride in her husband’s success.
Together, the couple represent modern partnership — grounded in love, education, ambition, and shared values.
Shaunagh Brown’s Diverse Career Before Rugby
Few athletes have a CV as diverse as Shaunagh Brown’s. Before becoming a household name in sport, she built a rich and varied career that showcased her versatility and work ethic:
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Gas Engineer at British Gas (2010–2015) — starting as an apprentice and qualifying as a central-heating installation engineer.
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Commercial Diver for Medway Diving Contractors Limited (2016–2017), taking on underwater maintenance and repair work.
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Firefighter at Kent Fire and Rescue Service (2017–2019), where she also served as an Inclusion Teacher, promoting diversity and equality in public services.
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BBC Sport Columnist (2020–2023), writing about life in England Rugby and offering authentic insight into the women’s game.
This extraordinary career path makes Brown’s story uniquely relatable — a testament to resilience and adaptability.
Shaunagh Brown: Leadership and Life After Rugby
Since retiring, Shaunagh has transformed herself into a motivational speaker, host, and change-maker. Through her company and speaking engagements, she focuses on themes such as:
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Leadership and Resilience
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Diversity and Inclusion
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High Performance and Team Culture
Her current projects include:
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Ambassador roles with Royal London, British & Irish Lions, and GB Wheelchair Rugby.
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Podcast Co-Host for For The Love Of Rugby (2025–present).
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Board Trustee at the Student Rugby Football Union, promoting female participation at the university level.
Her speaking style — bold, cheeky, and heartfelt — mirrors her playing style: unapologetically authentic. She aims not just to make people think, but to make them act, turning conversations into legacy.
Shaunagh Brown and Ugo Monye
Brown has frequently collaborated with Ugo Monye, another influential figure in English rugby, particularly on issues of race, representation, and inclusion. The two have appeared together in interviews, podcasts, and Rugby Football Union campaigns like Rugby Against Racism, addressing the need for cultural change within the sport.
Their professional partnership reflects a shared mission: to make rugby more accessible, inclusive, and reflective of the communities it represents.
Shaunagh Brown’s Achievements and Recognition
Shaunagh Brown’s influence extends far beyond the pitch. Some of her notable honours include:
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Named among the Evening Standard’s Progress 1000: London’s Most Influential People (2019) for her contribution to sport.
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Recognised as a role model for working-class, female, and racially diverse representation in British athletics.
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Continues to serve as an ambassador for women in sport, mentoring younger athletes and championing visibility for future generations.
Her philosophy — that “every selfie, every autograph, every moment matters” — encapsulates her commitment to helping the next generation believe in themselves.
Shaunagh Brown’s Legacy and Message
Shaunagh Brown’s journey is a masterclass in reinvention, resilience, and representation. From a single-parent household in South London to the heights of international sport and motivational leadership, she has never stopped challenging expectations.
She represents the everyday hero: the gas engineer who became a firefighter, the firefighter who became an England rugby international, and the athlete who became a voice for equality.
Her message is simple but powerful — “You can’t be what you can’t see.” Brown’s mission is to make sure the next generation sees that anything is possible, no matter where you start.
Final Thoughts on Shaunagh Brown
Shaunagh Brown’s story transcends sport. She stands as a beacon of strength, diversity, and change in modern Britain. Whether she’s speaking to executives in a boardroom, mentoring a young player, or co-hosting a rugby podcast, her purpose remains clear: to empower others to live boldly and authentically.
At 35 years old, Shaunagh Brown’s playing career may have ended, but her influence continues to grow — proving that leadership isn’t about titles or trophies, but about impact, courage, and legacy.
FAQs
How old is Shaunagh Brown?
Shaunagh Brown was born on 15 March 1990 in London, England, which makes her 35 years old as of 2025.
Who is Shaunagh Brown’s husband?
Shaunagh Brown is married to Chrispin “Benjii” Benjamin, a CAD and Construction Technology Trainer at MidKent College and a graduate of the University of Portsmouth. She often affectionately refers to him as Benjii on social media.
What is Shaunagh Brown best known for?
She is best known as a former England rugby union player and Harlequins Women’s prop, as well as a former Commonwealth Games hammer thrower. She is now a keynote speaker, host, and ambassador for equality and inclusion.
What is Shaunagh Brown’s height and weight?
Shaunagh Brown stands 1.78 metres tall (5 ft 10 in) and weighs approximately 95 kilograms, reflecting her powerful athletic background.
What does Shaunagh Brown do now?
After retiring from professional rugby in 2022, Shaunagh Brown now works as a motivational speaker, presenter, and change-maker, partnering with organisations like Royal London and the British & Irish Lions to promote diversity, resilience, and leadership.
