The International World Games Association (IWGA) has launched the second edition of its Women’s Leadership Programme (WLP), delivered once again in partnership with Women Lead Sports. Building on the success of the inaugural programme in 2024, this edition brings together women from across IWGA member federations for focused leadership development, skills-building, and networking.
AIMS is pleased to spotlight the participation of two of its member federations — the International Aikido Federation (IAF) and the International Fistball Association (IFA) — both of which continue to prioritise gender balance and leadership development within their sports.
The IAF Gender Balance Working Group, represented by Chairperson Satomi Ishikawa, has been actively engaged in the programme. Ishikawa shared: “The Women Lead Sports programme equipped me with practical tools to grow as a leader in sport and the confidence to take initiative. The inspiring stories of senior women reminded me that we are part of a strong, supportive global community creating change together.” Her participation reflects the IAF’s ongoing commitment to expanding pathways for women in governance and technical leadership roles.
The International Fistball Association (IFA) is represented this year by Ines Weber, who highlighted several key takeaways from the programme: “The programme offers immediately actionable insights. Many things seem simple, but they make a big difference when applied consciously. It is a crucial impulse to strengthen women in fistball and support their leadership paths.” These learnings support IFA’s broader efforts to increase women’s representation at all levels of the organisation.
The 2025 edition of the WLP includes 44 participants from a range of IWGA federations, strengthening the collective focus on developing female leaders across the sport ecosystem.
IWGA Vice-President Tom Dielen, who initiated the programme, stated: “The first edition showed how much potential exists among women leaders in our federations. With this second edition, we are building on that momentum to give even more women the tools and confidence to take up leadership roles in sport. This is not just a programme – it is an investment in the future of our movement.”
AIMS President Stephan Fox welcomed the continued engagement of AIMS member federations.
“It is encouraging to see IAF and IFA taking active steps to support women in leadership. Programmes like this provide practical tools that strengthen individuals and, ultimately, our entire sporting community.”
AIMS commends the IAF and IFA for their commitment and encourages all AIMS member federations to continue investing in pathways that support women in governance and leadership roles.
