Featured Image: World Women’s Snowsports Organization
The World Women’s Snowsports Organization (WWSO) proudly hosted its inaugural Summit from April 20–26, 2025, in the picturesque alpine village of Kaprun, Austria. The groundbreaking weeklong event brought together women leaders, coaches, instructors, and advocates from around the world to advance the visibility, influence, and impact of women in snowsports.
Set against the breathtaking backdrop of the Austrian Alps, the Summit served as a global platform for connection, innovation, and empowerment. More than 50 women from 12 countries participated in workshops, keynote sessions, panel discussions, and on-snow clinics designed to elevate the next generation of women leaders in skiing, snowboarding, and beyond.
“This Summit marks a defining moment in the future of snowsports for women,” said WWSO CEO Brenna Kelleher. “Our mission is to lead a united, global movement where women in all facets of snowsports can thrive – and this week was a bold first step toward that vision. This goal isn’t just about empowering women; it’s also about fostering stronger working relationships across the entire industry. By reevaluating the roles of skilled workers and how we collaborate, we aim to create a more inclusive and equitable environment for both men and women alike.”
The WWSO is the industry-leading social impact corporation for women’s-specific development and education across all snow disciplines. It advocates for professional wages and working conditions, inclusion, and equity, as well as provides training and consulting to increase the participation, growth, and retention of women in snowsports.
Highlights from the Summit included:
- Keynote Presentations from pioneers and change makers in elite coaching, alpine racing, snowboarding, and sport leadership.
- Professional Development Workshops on topics such as developing a coaching philosophy, mental resilience, and building sustainable careers in sport.
- On-Snow Masterclasses led by world-class women instructors and national team coaches.
- Networking and Mentorship Opportunities, fostering international collaboration and peer support.
Ten global snowsport organizations (PSIA-AASI, CSIA, APSI, NSP, IFSA, PSIC, APUL, SMSZ, BASI, and NOESLV) were represented, along with eight national demo team members/alumnae from the U.S., Hungary, Canada, and Australia who also attended.
The WWSO Summit spotlighted the depth of talent within the global women’s snowsports community and laid the groundwork for future initiatives, including ongoing professional education, clinics, workshops, and advocacy efforts.
WWSO extends its deepest gratitude to its partners and sponsors (Blizzard, Carv, Armada, Flylow, Sweet Protection, Kohla, Bründl Sports, Rab, Big Picture Skiing, Nobody’s Princess, and Hotel Das Alpenhaus Kaprun) for their support in making the Summit a resounding success.
For more information about the World Women’s Snowsports Organization and upcoming initiatives, visit:
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