O’Brien, Shiffrin, Moltzan / GEPA pictures
Two of the most influential leaders in global sport take on the future of women in alpine skiing—live on March 30.
How to watch and register. In this article, you will find how to attend the EWAS Women, Leadership, and Sports event, speaker insights, and why this conversation matters for the future of leadership in alpine skiing.
On March 30, 2026, the EWAS (Empowering Women in Alpine Skiing) project will host a free online capstone event focused on women in sports leadership. The conversation will feature Kolinda Grabar-Kitarović and Sarah Lewis, two of the most influential figures in global sport governance, discussing the challenges and opportunities shaping the next generation of women leaders.
While female athletes continue to achieve extraordinary success on the slopes, structural barriers still limit women’s progression into coaching, management, and executive roles. This event brings that reality into focus—and looks at what must change next.
What is the EWAS project and why does it matter?
Financed by the European Union, EWAS was designed to address gender imbalance in alpine skiing through a combination of research, capacity-building, and advocacy.
The project identified systemic challenges that have historically restricted women’s advancement in the sport. In response, EWAS developed targeted training programs, mentorship opportunities, and stakeholder engagement initiatives—all of which are freely available online.
These initiatives equipped women with the skills, networks, and confidence needed to step into leadership roles. At the same time, EWAS worked with federations, clubs, and policy stakeholders to promote more inclusive practices and improve gender representation across all levels of the sport.
Who are the speakers leading this conversation?
The capstone event brings together two global leaders whose experience spans sport, governance, and international policy:
- Kolinda Grabar-Kitarović — former President of Croatia, member of the International Olympic Committee, and Chair of the Future Host Commission for the Olympic Games
- Sarah Lewis — Olympian, Chair of the GB Olympians Association, and former FIS Secretary General
Together, they will reflect on both the persistent barriers and the emerging opportunities for women in sports leadership.
What will the discussion focus on?
Moderated by EWAS Principal Investigator Federiga Bindi, the conversation will deliver a candid and forward-looking perspective on leadership in sport.
The discussion will explore:
- Personal leadership journeys at the highest levels of sport and governance
- Structural barriers that continue to limit women’s advancement
- Policy and cultural reforms needed to create lasting change
- How to ensure women’s voices are fully integrated into decision-making processes
This is not just a retrospective conversation—it is designed to identify actionable steps forward.
Why is this event more than just a conclusion?
Although the event marks the official end of the EWAS project, its purpose extends far beyond a closing milestone.
It serves as a call to action—highlighting the urgency of moving from dialogue to measurable progress. The goal is to build sustainable pathways for the next generation of women leaders in alpine skiing and across sport.
By connecting research, policy, and lived experience, EWAS demonstrates that gender equality is not only a matter of fairness. It is also a driver of stronger governance, innovation, and long-term sustainability in sport.
How to watch and register for the EWAS event
The Women, Leadership and Sports capstone conversation will be held online on March 30, 2026.
Register to participate virtually and receive access to the event recording.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Women, Leadership and Sports event?
It is the final EWAS (Empowering Women in Alpine Skiing) event, focused on advancing women into leadership roles in sport.
When is the EWAS Women in Sports event?
The event takes place online on March 30, 2026.
How can I watch the EWAS event?
The event is free to attend online. Registration is required to join live or receive the recording.
It is the final EWAS (Empowering Women in Alpine Skiing) event, focused on advancing women into leadership roles in sport.
The event takes place online on March 30, 2026.
The event is free to attend online. Registration is required to join live or receive the recording.
Kolinda Grabar-Kitarović, former President of Croatia and IOC member, and Sarah Lewis, former FIS Secretary General.
It addresses structural barriers limiting women in leadership and outlines solutions for long-term change in the sport.
About the Author: Press Release
