At the IWG Global Summit on Women & Sport 2026 in Birmingham, England, WomenSport International (WSI) brought together global leaders, advocates, and emerging voices committed to advancing girls and women in sport. Through the inspiring WSI Open Session, presentations by WSI Task Force Members, and contributions from other WSI members, the Summit showcased the power of leadership, mentorship, international collaboration, and meaningful connection.
WomenSport International at IWG 2026: Global Voices, Meaningful Connections, and a Shared Commitment to Advancing Women in Sport
July 2026
Birmingham, England — WomenSport International (WSI) proudly participated in the IWG Global Summit on Women & Sport 2026, contributing to important conversations on leadership, inclusion, safeguarding, mentorship, and the future of women and girls in sport. Through the WSI Open Session, member presentations, and opportunities for connection and collaboration, WSI members demonstrated the organization’s ongoing commitment to advancing gender equity in sport worldwide.
WSI Open Session Highlights Global Leadership and Personal Journeys
A major highlight of WSI’s presence at the Summit was the WSI Open Session 2026, which brought together influential voices from around the world to share personal stories and professional experiences that continue to shape the global women and sport movement.
The session was opened by WSI Founder and Past President Professor Kari Fasting and WSI President Diane Huffman, who welcomed attendees and reflected on the importance of collective action in advancing opportunities for girls and women in sport. The discussion was expertly moderated by WSI Board Member Emily Cameron-Blake.
The distinguished panel featured:
- Dr. Anita White CBE, Founder of Women in Sport, the IWG, and the Anita White Foundation and Fund
- Dr. Elizabeth Pike, Professor, University of Hertfordshire
- Danette Leighton, Chief Executive Officer, Women’s Sports Foundation (USA)
- Dr. Maria Luisa M. Guinto, President, International Association of Physical Education and Sport for Girls and Women (IAPESGW)
- Dr. Lombe Mwambwa, CEO, Global Observatory for Gender Equality & Sport
- Dr. Kanae Haneishi, WSI Secretary General and Professor, Western Colorado University
Each panelist offered powerful and deeply personal reflections on resilience, leadership, advocacy, and the challenges and opportunities that have shaped their journeys in sport.
Dr. Kanae Haneishi, WSI Secretary General spoke about her experiences as an immigrant Asian woman in the United States and the importance of representation, inclusion, and perseverance. Her reflections highlighted how visibility and opportunity can empower future generations of women and girls in sport.
With a highly engaged audience representing many countries and perspectives, the session embodied the spirit of international collaboration and affirmed the importance of continuing to amplify women’s voices across all areas of sport.
WSI Task Force Members Highlight Mentorship and Youth Leadership
Another significant contribution came from WSI Task Force Members Natsuki Murakami and Tabea Ulmer, who presented on the role of WomenSport International in supporting international collaboration, with a particular focus on mentorship, youth leadership, and elevating the voices of the next generation of women in sport.
Their presentation emphasized the importance of creating meaningful pathways for young women to participate in leadership, contribute to global discussions, and help shape the future of sport. Through examples of international collaboration and intergenerational engagement, Murakami and Ulmer demonstrated how mentorship can foster confidence, connection, and leadership development among emerging advocates in sport.
Their work reflects WSI’s commitment to ensuring that younger generations are not only included in conversations about the future of sport but are empowered to lead them.
Other WSI Members Contributions at IWG 2026
WSI was also proud to see members sharing expertise through their own presentations at the Summit.
Emily Cameron-Blake, WSI Board Members, representing both Global Sports Policy Ltd and WomenSport International, presented on advising governments and international organizations on safeguarding and sport policy. Her session highlighted the importance of creating safer, more inclusive sport environments and strengthening policy frameworks that protect participants at all levels.
WSI also celebrates Dr. Ainhoa Azurmendi Echegaray, WSI member and Co-Chair of the Non-Accidental Violence in Sport Task Force, who presented “Women Coaches in Football: More in Number, More Qualified, and More Empowered Through Support Networks.” Her presentation emphasized the growing impact of women coaches and the critical role that support networks play in advancing gender equality and leadership opportunities within sport.
Together, these presentations showcased the breadth of expertise and leadership within the WSI community and highlighted the organization’s contributions to critical issues affecting girls and women in sport globally.
Building Relationships Beyond the Sessions
Beyond the formal presentations, WSI members took time to strengthen relationships and build new connections throughout the Summit.
WSI hosted a special dinner bringing together Open Session panelists, members, and friends of the organization. The evening provided an opportunity for meaningful conversations, shared experiences, and the strengthening of relationships among advocates committed to advancing women and girls in sport.
Throughout the week, WSI members connected with delegates from around the world, exchanging ideas, exploring future collaborations, and expanding networks that will continue to support progress long after the Summit concludes.
These moments of connection reinforce an important truth: while presentations and panels inspire action, it is the relationships we build that create lasting impact.
Together, we continue to build connections that matter and create impact that lasts.
