“Being a woman in football - both on and off the pitch - isn’t easy. But hell it’s rewarding. When you put the same passion you see in the stands in what you do, paths will open.”

Meet Thayssa Plum, Brazilian sports journalist who moved backstage after pursuing the AISTS (International Academy of Sport Science and Technology) Masters in 2011. She has been working in football since 2007, and with FIFA since 2015.

WHO HAS PLAYED A PIVOTAL ROLE

“June Canavan, whose dedication to women in sport led to the creation of a foundation by her partner, Anne Gripper, which has been helping young girls to succeed. Thanks to them I got a scholarship to pursue my Masters in Switzerland.

We need to keep believing in ourselves, continue to fight for more opportunities, and always support each other.”