The UpSkilling Coaches project successfully held its Final International Conference, bringing together project partners, coaches, sports professionals, and participants to reflect on the project’s achievements, share experiences, and discuss the future of women’s coaching in minority sports across Europe.
The conference marked an important milestone in the project’s journey, providing an opportunity to showcase its results and highlight the importance of professional development, gender equality, and inclusion in sport.
Reflecting on Project Achievements and Impact
The event began with a presentation of the UpSkilling Coaches project, highlighting its main objectives, implemented activities, and achieved results. Participants had the opportunity to learn more about the project’s contribution to empowering female coaches and creating new opportunities for professional growth.
A key part of the conference focused on the Awareness Raising Campaign and the UpSkilling Coaches Petition, which aim to promote greater visibility, recognition, and equal opportunities for female coaches in minority sports.
Sharing Experiences and Inspiring Change
One of the conference’s highlights was a session dedicated to Women in Sport from the Perspective of Sicilian Coaches, offering valuable insights into the experiences, opportunities, and challenges faced by women working in coaching.
The programme also featured Rising Voices: Experiences and Testimonies from UpSkilling Coaches, providing an opportunity to share personal experiences and reflections on the importance of continuous learning, professional development, and support networks.
These discussions reinforced the need to continue promoting inclusive environments where female coaches can develop their skills, strengthen their confidence, and advance their careers.
Looking Towards the Future
The conference concluded with reflections on the project’s achievements, an evaluation of the event, and discussions about the sustainability and long-term impact of its results.
Beyond the conference sessions, participants also had the opportunity to take part in a social football match at the Garden Center, demonstrating the power of sport as a tool for inclusion, cooperation, and community building.
Continuing the Mission of UpSkilling Coaches
The Final International Conference represented an important moment for the UpSkilling Coaches partnership, celebrating the progress achieved through international cooperation and a shared commitment to empowering women in sport.
The project has brought together organisations from Italy, Bulgaria, Lithuania, and Hungary, working towards a common goal of improving coaching opportunities, strengthening professional competencies, and promoting gender equality in minority sports.
We would like to express our sincere gratitude to all project partners, speakers, coaches, and participants who contributed to the conference and supported the project’s activities.
Although the project is approaching its conclusion, its mission remains relevant: to create a more inclusive, supportive, and empowering environment for female coaches across Europe.
