Gender and Geographical Diversity Panel Discussion

The World Sailing Trust will be hosting a Gender and Geographical Diversity panel discussion on October 28 at 0700 PDT/1000 EDT). Moderated by double Olympic gold medalist Shirley Robertson, the panel will discuss how to expand the reach of sailing to a wider, diverse, and more inclusive audience.

Panelists include Miguel Crespo, Head of Participation and Coaching, International Tennis Federation; Jennifer Cooper, UN Women, Sport for Generation Equality; Irina Gladkikh, Associate Director at the International Olympic Committee in charge of Winter and Recognized Sports, Rob Holden, Development Director, World Sailing; Lindani Mchunu, from South Africa; and Dawn Riley, Oakcliff Sailing.

As gender and geographical diversity are ever-present and powerful in sport, the goal is to recognize and value cultural diversity. However, to date the focus has been on gender and how stereotypes and media representations still convey the message that sailing is a masculine activity.

Additionally, race, ethnicity, and socioeconomic status also limit opportunities in our sport, so there exists a need to come together to advocate for inclusive excellence in events, programs, and organizations to expand reach and promote sailing.

Watch here: