“For women aspiring to work in the sports industry, take pride in your work and embrace opportunities with confidence. If an opportunity presents itself, lean in—it might just change your career.” - Vanessa Frost-Piedrahita

“Sally Dennis (former Chair) and Kathleen McGinn (Current Chair) of Rugby Canada have played a pivotal role in my rugby journey. Both are very strong women who have inspired and mentored me to be an effective Board member and leader within the organisation.” - Dr Lauren Wolman

“As a former rugby player, I've been truly inspired by the USA Women's Rugby 7s Olympic Team and Ilona Maher for breaking barriers and demonstrating that women can be both fierce and beautiful without conforming to traditional beauty standards." - Sam Iannotti

“To those who may sometimes feel like an imposter as a leader in sport, my advice is: when you feel like an imposter, pause and remember that you are working in a system and institution that too often tells female leaders they do not belong in sport leadership. It is not you. You do belong and imposter syndrome is a waste of your energy, your brilliance, and time.” - Parissa Safai

“I aim to support the active inclusion of gender-diverse athletes and champion gender diversity in sport for development, a goal that strongly aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal for gender equality. I believe that embracing gender diversity is integral to achieving true gender equity.” - Julia Ferreira Gomes

“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

"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

“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

“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

"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

“I'm just an ordinary girl who has done exceptional things by taking action, addressing injustices, and speaking my truth.” - Emma Doyle

“It’s crucial to spend time learning about yourself outside of athletics. Most importantly, remember that you are more than your sport.” - Megan Reuter

“Being recognised for putting in effort, working hard, and being a fierce competitor was what I wanted.” - Annick-Isabelle Marcoux

“Women are going from backstage to the front stage of the game in every area of sport. We are breaking barriers and achieving in the spaces that were ours to be achieved. It is time to celebrate and encourage more women to shine and take the places they deserve.” - Valeria Sorrention