“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

“If I could go back and talk to myself, I would say, ‘It’s OK to have multiple purposes and aspirations.’ The key is to have a plan and a timeline for how and when to achieve them. I would reassure myself that I can shine in all the places I want to shine; no one is stopping me.” - Richa Sharma

“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

“There were many naysayers when I chose to build my career in sports, but I decided to listen to my gut and focus on what I truly believe in: ‘Sports & Myself’. Eventually, the naysayers turned into YAY-sayers.” - Tania Teoh

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

“There is still a perception that women's sport should be marketed to women, but that is not the case. While the female audience percentage does increase for women's sport, at the end of the day it is people who have an interest in sport who are the most likely to consume it - so let's not forget that!” - Felicity George

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

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

“When your career is your passion, this is where the magic happens. You give 200% because it doesn’t feel like work.” - Li Neo Tay