In Western Australia, SportWest’s Women of Sport initiative supports women in the sports industry through networking and professional development. The program aims to connect women, foster supportive environments, and encourage participation in sports at all life stages.

The initiative is guided by the Women of Sport Advisory Group, which includes Robyn Kuhl, CEO of Volleyball WA, who advocates for women’s advancement in sports. Launched in 2013, the network emerged from recognising the lack of networking opportunities for women leaders in WA sports, where female representation in executive roles was alarmingly low.

The initiative also features programs like the Emerging Leaders Program and Senior Leaders Program, led cabably by SportWest’s  Michelle Hort (a VWA Board Member). The program that wrapped up last month aims to develop future leaders in sports. Participants have reported transformative experiences, highlighting the value of mentorship and skill-building. Two Volleyball WA team members, Leah Clayton and Kirsty Eaton, participated in the program. Kirsty reflected on her involvement in the program, stating, “Participating in the SportWest Women in Sport Emerging Leaders Program was an invaluable experience that broadened my leadership skills and strengthened my confidence. The program provided a supportive environment to connect with like-minded women and mentorship, gain insights from industry leaders, and develop practical skills that I can apply in my career. I am grateful for the opportunity to grow both personally and professionally. A huge thank you to Michelle Hort and SportWest for creating such a meaningful program and for their commitment to supporting women in sport.”

Overall, SportWest’s Women of Sport initiative is paving the way for a more inclusive and supportive environment, empowering women to thrive in their sports careers and ensuring their contributions are recognized.