An international women’s sport leadership academy has been described as "life-changing" by participants.
The 2026 Women’s Sport Leadership Academy (WSLA) took place at the University of Chichester, bringing together 32 leaders from 16 countries for a week of professional development, networking and peer support.
The programme aims to equip women working in sport with the skills and confidence to drive positive change within their organisations and the wider sector.
Helen Frost, head of marketing and public affairs at Scottish Swimming, said: "For me, it has been a life-changing experience.
"I thought I would develop more confidence and connect with others, and I have done that – but I have also discovered how being more open and honest about my own challenges can help me become a better leader.
"The WSLA effect is really incredible; I think I have made lifelong friends."
The 2026 cohort included leaders from international, national and regional sport organisations.
Read more:
-
University of Chichester to launch first-ever research and innovation week
-
Law graduate makes history as university’s first student called to the Bar
-
University of Sussex professor on Gaza students and the book giving them a voice
Ojonoka Agudah, senior legal counsel, commercial, for the International Paralympic Committee in Germany, said: "WSLA has been amazing.
"I have made genuine connections with women who are in similar positions to me.
"Having this sense of community, and realising I am not alone in my journey, is really important."
The programme is delivered in partnership between the University of Chichester and Leading Edge Performance and is built around the ‘four Cs’ of competencies, confidence, context and commitment.
It combines workshops, reflection sessions, physical activities and personal development planning, supported by experienced facilitators and guest speakers.
Each participant is matched with a senior industry leader through a dedicated mentoring programme to continue their development beyond the academy.
Dr Jordan Matthews, academic lead at the University of Chichester’s Business School, said: "Upon welcoming our participants, we reiterate that WSLA is not a traditional leadership development programme.
"It is an intense, emotive and experiential week.
"And a few days later, after trusting the space and the process that our facilitators have created, we see the effect of WSLA on our participants. It is a privilege to share the week with them."
Share