Young women leaders from around the world will work side by side with US senior female executives who will serve as mentors and share valuable business and leadership skills, thanks to a partnership between the US Department of State, espnW, and UT’s Center for Sport, Peace, and Society.
“I encourage everyone to follow the journey of the women representing twelve countries who are participating in this year’s Global Sports Mentoring program,” said Sarah Hillyer, director of the center. “This is the world’s top sports mentoring program for women and helps advance the status of underserved women and girls around the world through sports.”
This year’s sixteen participants hail from Egypt, France, India, Indonesia, Jordan, Kenya, Kuwait, New Zealand, Mexico, Qatar, and Vietnam.
Now in its fourth year, the Global Sports Mentoring program allows for mentors, emerging leaders, and other international partners to develop a lasting relationship and an enhanced global network of supporters.
Participants are selected by US embassies overseas based on their accomplishments and drive to make an even greater impact in their country’s sports sector. Each participant crafts an action plan to implement upon her return home with the goal of creating sports opportunities for girls and women.
“Women who have been through this program tell us how many benefits they’ve seen in the women and girls, in their home country,” said Hillyer. “Women who participate in sports see an increase in self-esteem, health, and well-being, which in turn creates a stronger community and world.”
The program runs through October 17. Students in select journalism and electronic media classes at UT are following the program in order to report on the month-long mentorship.
Those who are interested can join the conversation on social media using the hashtag #EmpowerWomen—Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and YouTube.
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CONTACT:
Brian Canever (551-221-1382, bcanever@vols.utk.edu)
Tyra Haag (865-974-5460, tyra.haag@tennessee.edu)