Jessica Eddie (GBR) attended the ASOIF Women Leadership Workshop from 25 to 27 October 2024 in Lausanne. This intensive three-day leadership development programme was designed to equip emerging female leaders in sport with the tools, skills, and confidence to strengthen their leadership, communication, and influence within their organisations. Jessica reflected on the experience as one of the most transformative opportunities of her career.
“I arrived without clear expectations, but it quickly became one of the most transformative professional experiences of my career.”
The programme brought together an exceptional group of women leaders from across the global sporting landscape, alongside committed male allies from ASOIF. From the outset, the environment encouraged openness, honesty, and mutual support. Participants shared real lived experiences across a wide range of sports – including lacrosse, bobsleigh, judo, fencing and more – creating discussions that were insightful, challenging, and deeply relatable.
Learning throughout the workshop was practical, progressive, and immersive. Participants moved from collaborative team-building activities to advanced presentation and communication development, including AI-supported presentation skills. The programme culminated at the IOC House, where participants delivered their final presentations in the main media room – a setting that Jessica describes as both inspiring and confidence-building.
What stood out most for Jessica, however, was the culture created within the group.
“Advice was shared generously and without hierarchy, with a genuine commitment to building one another up.”
Over just three days, the group developed a rare level of trust, connection, and professional solidarity. Participants left not only with strengthened leadership capability and renewed ambition, but also with a strong and enduring international support network.
Expressing her appreciation, Jessica shared:
“I am extremely grateful to World Rowing for the nomination and would wholeheartedly recommend that any aspiring female leader is supported to attend programmes of this calibre. The impact – both professionally and personally – is profound and lasting.”
World Rowing commends Jessica for her commitment to leadership development and thanks ASOIF for continuing to provide meaningful opportunities that empower women leaders across the Olympic Movement.