For the fifth consecutive year, ASOIF is supporting women leadership development through the Women Lead Sports online programme, designed and delivered by international coach Gabriela Mueller. The aim is to empower potential women leaders to serve in elective positions of their respective International Federation (IF), Continental Association or National Federation (NF), thereby increasing the number of women in leadership positions across the Olympic Movement.

The past editions have spawned almost 200 successful graduates, of whom several achieved to win elections for leadership positions in sport. This year’s programme has kicked off last week, coinciding with International Women’s Day and bringing together a total of 40 federations’ representatives from all continents. During the month of March, the participants are split into two groups and receive training to advance their leadership skills by developing self-awareness of their leadership style, progressing in their communication and negotiation skills, discussing Do’s and Don’ts in electoral years, learning to lead in male-dominated environments and much more. They will also receive individual advice and coaching.

This year’s participants once again cover a wide spectrum of profiles, including Presidents, Board members and Secretaries General of NFs, Athletes’ Commission members and also Olympians who are keen to give back to sport after their athletic career.

One of them is Kate French, Olympic Champion in Modern Pentathlon. She said:

I am really excited to be part of this programme and to develop my leadership skills, learning from and alongside women who are shaping the future.

ASOIF Executive Director James Carr highlighted:

With the conclusion of the successful Paris 2024 Olympic Games and the new Olympic cycle already underway, the timing for this important programme couldn’t be better. The Olympic Movement is facing a period of change and this evolution implies new leadership, new strategies and new opportunities - now is the right time for women leaders to prepare and act.

Within ASOIF, the initiative is led by the Diversity and Gender Equality Consultative Group, chaired by Sabrina Ibáñez, Secretary General of the International Equestrian Federation (FEI).