“Inequality inspired me to get into sport leadership, so that many other young girls would not experience what I did.” - Samantha Miyanda

“In sports, we all participate to the best of our abilities, and in most cases, disabilities are not inherent in the individual but in their environment. When the necessary resources are available to practice sports, the concept of disability fades away.” - Míriam Marimon

“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

“I believe that transforming discomfort into motivation and finding the courage to break from tradition to pursue what you believe is right can be the driving force behind changing the world and finding purpose within your field." - Olga Bagatini

“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

“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

"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

“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

“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

“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

“Currently, I am coaching U14 boys in an Australian Rules Football league. I believe having a woman coach normalises women in these roles and helps teenage boys develop respect for women. They respect me for my knowledge of the game, not just because I am a woman.” - Jules Hay

“Talk to many people at all levels and learn from their experiences. Everyone and everything around you is your teacher.” - Vanessa Åsell Tsuruga

“Have fun and enjoy the ride; there is no straight path along your journey” - Clare Hanlon