Empowering women to lead

Female members of the football family are in Nyon for a week-long session to work on personal development and skills that prepare them for leadership and decision-making positions in the sport. After this week, the programme then continues with a one-year mentor scheme, with the overall aim of encouraging more gender equality, from which the administration around football will be able to benefit.

Attendees come from across Europe, as well as from various areas of the game. The sessions at UEFA’s headquarters included speeches by Nadine Hack, CEO of beCause Global Consulting and IMD professor Ginka Toegel, a friendly football match as well as simulations and group discussions.

The programme is already having an impact on the lives of participants from previous editions.

Elif Canbay, Turkish Football Federation, Marketing and Sponsorship Manager

This was the best learning experience I have had during my career. I learned so much from the inspiring role models, I discovered more about my strength and opportunities and, finally, I met great colleagues from other associations. I felt very proud and privileged to be part of this experience. I am now more aware of the opportunities that lie ahead of me, and how I can grow myself further into an inspiring female leader in football.

Malina Cintic, Romanian Football Federation, Legal expert

For me, the experience exceeded my expectations. A complete programme with top professionals and a well thought-out schedule. It has helped me grow a great deal, both personally and professionally. It is empowering and extremely emotional. I think the most important message was how strong women in football are. I highly recommend it!

Why is UEFA investing in a women’s football leadership programme?

Having an inclusive working environment and diverse teams within an organisation has proven to lead to more efficient and effective leadership, bringing benefits to the running of the organisation overall. However, figures still show that very few women occupy leadership posts within the national associations and European football as a whole. UEFA’s role as the governing body of European football is to promote gender equality, and support women to achieve greater participation in the decision-making processes within the sport.