“Believe in yourself and continue to build on the knowledge and skills you've gained. I think it is important to learn from those who have come before and to never stop learning and striving to be the best you can be.” - Penny McIntyre

“Athletes show us that it is always possible to push boundaries and achieve what once seemed unattainable. This is especially true in the sustainability sector!” - Anne-Cécile Turner

“There isn’t a single person who played a pivotal role in my career, but rather five or six key people who recognised my potential—probably before I did—and gave me opportunities and support, both on and off the rugby pitch. I have tried to do the same for others coming up behind me.” - Lisa O'Keefe MBE

“Coming from a background where women in rugby were largely underrepresented, I’ve made it my mission to break down barriers and create pathways for more women to thrive—not just as players, but as referees, coaches, and leaders.” - Peris Mukoko-Wanyaga

“I would like to help de-stigmatise mental health. High-performing athletes are under a lot of pressure, and their mental health can affect them just as much as a physical injury.” - Cristina Ibarra

"My journey has been shaped by diverse individuals across ages, backgrounds, classes, and races. Diversity is a privilege for those making a positive impact in the world." - Sasha Sutherland

"Follow your dreams, and don’t give up. Even when the situations you face are very challenging, remember that the strongest fighters face the toughest battles." - Yaima Payne

“Do not underestimate the power of a network. Find creative ways to insert yourself into sport industry discussions. If you can, attend conferences and networking events in your local community. Through these channels, you might just find your people. Keep them close, and use these spiderwebs of sisterhood to bolster the presence of women in the sport industry.” - Lyndsay Hayhurst

“No matter where you start, you can grow into a leader who shapes the future of sport. Through my experiences working at both small community events and global championships, I’ve learned that every opportunity, no matter the scale, is valuable and contributes to shaping your path. Every step of my journey has been fuelled by a love of sport and a belief in the power of teamwork.” - Greta Dönnecke

“I’d love to share the story of how trail running has been a constant in my life, standing by me through major life upheavals. It’s been my ‘best friend,’ challenging me while simultaneously allowing me to maintain a sense of self while redefining who I am—professionally, personally, athletically, in relationships with others, and with myself.” - Lisa Getz

“As women with an innate interest in sport and exercise, we need to remember the girls who did not have access to sports, were picked last in gym class, and grew up to be women who did not identify as being athletic.” - Dr Jaclyn Hadfield

"I started Yakarr Football Academy because I wanted to play football on my birthday, but there were no tournaments for women and girls where I live. Now we run a women’ and girls’ tournament every year and I run weekly sessions for girls in my community.” - Adama Jarju

“We know that menstruation is a barrier for many girls in sport, especially with cultural and religious restrictions. The lack of attention and education on this topic is a perfect example of how girls' (and women's) experiences are marginalised in the sports world. I hope to change the narrative by making menstrual health talk part of our duty of care for young athletes, rather than a taboo. Menstrual health literacy should be standard for all coaches and sport leaders. If we can make this change, we can create better sports environments and experiences for future generations of girls in sport.” - Dr Sarah Zipp

"My sports journey began in the 1950s when, as a young woman, I would go with my brother to watch the Footscray Football Club play every second Saturday afternoon at a suburban football ground in Melbourne’s west. From those afternoons, I fell in love with the Club and the game of Australian Rules Football, leading me to volunteer my time in various roles." - Susan Alberti AC

“One of the most impactful moments for me was being the team leader and guiding my teammates through multiple victories. Seeing the joy and pride on their faces after each achievement reinforced my belief in the power of teamwork and leadership.” - Irene Mutindi Mutinda

"At nine years old, I picked up the 1994 Sports Illustrated Olympic Preview magazine. As I flipped through the pages, I was captivated by images of female athletes practicing their sports with determination and grace. In that moment, I decided I would become an Olympian. Next, I had to find a sport." - Jennifer Heil

“My message is one of advocacy for equal opportunities in sports, where every individual, regardless of gender or background, can thrive and succeed. I hope to leave behind a legacy that inspires future generations to pursue their dreams in sports, to challenge stereotypes, and to contribute to a more equitable and compassionate world through athletic achievement and solidarity.” - Janet Motah

“Believe in young women—we have the ambition, we have the talent, and all we need is the chance to prove it!” - Johanna Wilhelmsson

"I’m passing a message that women do belong on the sports field and in any field that they choose, and that sometimes it might not seem like people like us do not exist, but when you search hard enough you will find someone that can inspire you to push towards your goals and to be part of the change makers too.” - Thubaelihle Sibanda

“Be gentle and authentic to yourself and your beliefs. It’s easy to try to conform to your environment, but this can lead to long-term frustrations. Be patient, and don’t rush through phases; each opportunity equips you with what you need for the next level. Most importantly, enjoy the journey and savour each moment along the way.” - Vanessa Sales