This year’s Women’s Leadership Workshop, jointly organised by the International Olympic Committee (IOC) and the Association of Summer Olympic International Federations (ASOIF), concluded successfully earlier this week in Lausanne, Switzerland. For the participants, however, the real impact of the programme is only just beginning.

The workshop brought together women from across the Olympic Movement to strengthen their leadership capabilities, political acumen and influence, while equipping them with the confidence and skills needed to take on greater decision-making responsibilities.

ASOIF Executive Director James Carr concluded:

The early feedback is very positive: participants are already taking ideas into their federations and supporting one another. Our investment with the IOC is intended to help women translate their leadership skills into greater influence, and we look forward to seeing how they build on this momentum.

Supporting women’s development and progression into leadership positions is at the heart of the programme, reflecting the shared commitment of the IOC and ASOIF to empowering women to play a greater role in shaping the future of sport.

Jules McGeever, co-founder and programme director at EqualCareers, which delivered the programme, explained:

EqualCareers designed the programme we needed when we worked in sport, but which simply didn’t exist: leadership through the particular lens of women working, some thriving and some surviving, in sport. The real impact is measured by what happens when participants go back into their organisations with greater self-assurance, stronger networks and a clearer sense of how they can influence change.

The personal feedback from participants has been equally powerful, highlighting the impact of the workshop both professionally and personally.

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Image credits

Left: Karoliina Nissinen; Right: Elena Couttenye  |  © ASOIF / Tatiana Lyzhina

Karoliina Nissinen from the International Shooting Sport Federation (ISSF) shared her experience: "You have created something truly special, and what you have given us through this programme is extraordinary. I really hope this is not the end, but the beginning of many more things together."

Elena Couttenye from the International Equestrian Federation (FEI) highlighted the personal impact of the programme: "This was one of the most empowering weekends of my life!"

The Women’s Leadership Workshop forms part of ASOIF’s and the IOC’s ongoing commitment to supporting women’s progression into leadership and decision-making roles across the Olympic Movement.