UEFA WFLP 2025: Developing Leadership Skills in Women's Football Governance

The aim of the "UEFA Women in Football Leadership Programme 2025" is to develop the leadership skills of women working in decision-making positions in football governance.

This was stated by Gunay Zamanli, Head of the Legal Department of AFFA, in an interview with "Report".

The official of the organization shared her impressions about participating in the educational program held in Lausanne, Switzerland, jointly organized by the UEFA Academy and IMD Business School:

"The main goal of the program is to develop the leadership skills of women working in decision-making positions in football governance, increase their leadership potential, strengthen their participation in the decision-making process and support their professional development. At the same time, it serves to strengthen the role of women in the future of football and promote the exchange of international experience".

She also mentioned her meeting with UEFA officials during the trip:

"During the visit, we also had meetings with UEFA Vice President Laura McAllister CBE, FLSW, FRSA, and "EA Sports" General Manager Andrea Hopelain. They shared with us inspiring stories on the topics of resilience, ambition and courageous leadership. We completed the program by going through stages of difficulty and transformation with a renewed leadership identity, deep self-awareness and a focus on career development".

G. Zamanli also emphasized that UEFA supports women who are ready to take the next step on the path to leadership:

"UEFA supports women working in federations, leagues, clubs or global football organizations who are ready to take the next step on the path to leadership. Within the framework of the program, participants learn to effectively deal with the professional challenges they will face by working on strategic thinking, personal confidence and resilience. Program participants also connect with each other, share experiences and become part of a strong community of women leaders. The program was not just a course, but a transformative journey in terms of development, reflection and connection. This experience allows women to develop their leadership skills, strengthen their career paths and create real change in football."