((Asian Football)) concludes the second batch of the women's empowerment program
Amman3 min read
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The Asian Football Confederation (AFC) celebrated the graduation of the second batch of the AFC Women's Empowerment in Football Program, marking a new milestone in the journey of promoting female leadership on the continent.
Over the course of six months, the program—held via video conferencing technology—equipped the 30 graduates with relevant theoretical knowledge and practical applications to help them better navigate the global football environment, promote gender diversity, equality, and inclusion, alongside introducing ethical, strategic, and collaborative methods aimed at overcoming industry-related barriers.
Cadres from member associations, regional associations, and other stakeholders from across Asia participated in the program, as the participants underwent a comprehensive learning journey designed to enhance their knowledge and skills in key areas allowing them to drive positive change, innovation, and renewal in their careers and future initiatives.
The program's seven educational modules focused on a wide range of topics, including empowering women in leadership roles, institutional innovation, ethics and governance, and the impact of inclusion in football-related business environments. These modules were delivered through pre-recorded educational materials, live online sessions, lectures delivered by specialized experts and guests, group activities, practical assignments, and knowledge-sharing opportunities.
Alongside the structured educational aspect, the program provided ample opportunities to exchange experiences, discuss shared challenges, and learn from the participants' experiences, giving them an extra edge in applying what they learned to real-world situations and challenges within their various organizations.
Participant Charlotte Jade Olsen said: "This program allowed me to gain valuable insights into female leadership and gender-related barriers in football, alongside ways to make a real impact in the future. Throughout the program, I learned from the diverse experiences of my fellow participants and expert trainers, who also contributed to creating a conducive environment for growing and developing together."
Participant Eint Hmo Zaw noted: "The AFC Women's Empowerment in Football Program contributed to enhancing my professional knowledge and boosting my self-confidence. The carefully prepared curriculum helped me develop important practical insights that I hope to apply to continue supporting women's progress in football."
Congratulating the graduates, Vahid Kardani, AFC Deputy General Secretary for Member Associations, said: "Fostering greater diversity in leadership positions leads to stronger organizations, richer insights, and better decisions, all of which support the sustainable growth of football."
He added: "Take what you have learned and turn it into actions, and use this knowledge to continue developing your organizations, networks, and leadership capacities."
He explained: "Above all, continue to challenge obstacles, seize opportunities, and break the invisible barriers that prevent progress. Be role models for the next generation of women in football, and contribute to shaping brighter paths for the future."
The AFC Women's Empowerment in Football Program was designed to support the development of female leaders and cadres in Asian football. The first batch of the program took place in April 2025, and the successful graduation of the second batch reaffirms the AFC's steadfast commitment to enhancing leadership capacities and professional development, alongside supporting greater gender diversity in decision-making and leadership positions.
The AFC Women's Empowerment in Football Program is part of a set of pioneering educational initiatives offered by the Asian Football Confederation's Academy of Excellence, which include the AFC Certificate in Football Leadership, the AFC Child Safeguarding Certificate, the AFC Club Management Program, the AFC Strategy and Planning Certificate, and the AFC Football Management and Executive Administration Certificate.
