UIPM women’s leadership workshops turn reflection into practical action

UIPM has taken another stride towards stronger female leadership in the Pentathlon community, bringing women from across the world together for two leadership development sessions focused on self-awareness, communication and influence.

The interactive online sessions followed strong interest in the ASOIF Female Leadership Workshop in Lausanne, Switzerland, in which two-time world champion Elena Micheli of Italy participated.

In recognition of the many applications received, UIPM organised two additional online sessions led by the workshop facilitator, leadership development expert Jules McGeever of Equal Careers. This extended the opportunity to more women from across the Pentathlon community.

The initiative forms part of UIPM's commitment to creating meaningful development opportunities for women in sport, supporting professional growth and strengthening participation and influence in decision-making.

Competence, Confidence and Credibility

Women across sport bring considerable expertise, experience and leadership potential. Yet competence alone does not always translate into influence or opportunities to lead.

One of the central messages of the workshop was the relationship between ‘Competence, Confidence and Credibility’, three interconnected elements that shape how women recognise their leadership potential, communicate their contributions and build influence within sporting organisations.

The sessions also explored barriers women encounter throughout their leadership journeys, from the ‘glass ceiling’ that can limit progression to senior positions to the challenges of retaining women once they reach leadership roles.

The workshop encouraged participants to reflect not only on what they already bring to their organisations, but also on the factors that may prevent their strengths and expertise from being fully recognised.

From Leadership Theory to Practical Tools

The workshop placed practical exercises, collective learning and personal reflection at the centre of the experience.

Through a four-colour leadership personality exercise, participants explored different leadership styles, identifying their individual strengths and potential blind spots. The activity demonstrated that there is no single model of an effective leader and that strong leadership requires the ability to adapt communication and behaviour to different people and situations. This might be obvious but often forgotten and such workshops allows time and space to reflect on theories.

Participants also examined the importance of professional relationships, including the distinction between mentors, who provide guidance and advice, and sponsors, who can actively open doors to new opportunities. The discussions explored formal and informal power dynamics within sporting organisations, helping participants better understand how influence is built and exercised.

Practical reflections also focused on communicating with greater confidence, recognising when to listen and when to speak, and making their expertise and contributions more visible.

By examining stakeholder relationships and their own working environments, participants were encouraged to identify practical changes they could apply in their respective roles and federations.

Different Experiences, Shared Leadership Challenges

Beyond the practical tools, the sessions created a safe space for women from different backgrounds and leadership positions to share experiences, reflect on common challenges and learn from one another.

Reflecting on the workshop, Jules McGeever highlighted the diversity of perspectives and the value of collective learning: "I loved that this group brought together so many from the UIPM community, and every woman brought something different to the table. Different backgrounds, experiences and ways of leading, but so many shared challenges."

She added: "For me, it's about helping women recognise just how much they already have to offer and do offer, and giving them the tools and confidence to make their voices heard and have greater influence in sport.

“We weren't simply discussing leadership theories. We were giving participants tools to reflect on their own leadership, understand the people around them and identify practical changes they can make."

Nadia Nehmeh, General Secretary of the Lebanese Federation of Modern Pentathlon, said: “The workshop was a very valuable and inspiring experience. It helped me strengthen my confidence, recognise my leadership potential and understand how to lead with authenticity and empathy.

“I especially appreciated the opportunity to learn, reflect, and exchange experiences with other women. I will take these insights with me and apply them in my professional journey.”

Mariaan Botha, Selection Officer (Selections and Diversity) at the South African Modern Pentathlon Association, added: “Thank you to the UIPM for arranging a female leadership in sport workshop. It is encouraging to see the number of females who are active within the sporting structures.

“We are privileged to be part of an institution that recognise females not only as athletes but also as leaders.”

Denisse López, President of OCRA Ecuador, commented: "The workshop helped me better understand the difference between formal and informal communication and how both can contribute to more effective leadership. This learning is especially valuable during the transition we are experiencing in OCR, a sport that has grown through its community’s initiative and connections.

"Learning about colour-based personality profiles gave me tools to adapt my communication, understand different perspectives and strengthen teamwork. I also take away the challenge of bringing together my professional career in sales and my sports leadership on LinkedIn, highlighting the skills and experiences that connect both roles. Thank you to UIPM, our coach and all the participants for this opportunity to learn, share and grow as leaders!"

The workshop also welcomed the participation of Elena Micheli fresh from her visit to Olympic House in Lausanne, as reported by UIPM News.  

Building More Opportunities for Women in Sport

The initiative represents part of UIPM’s and the UIPM Women’s Commission’s broader efforts to support women's development and create opportunities for learning, professional growth and stronger connections within the Pentathlon community.

Participants will receive certificates of participation, recognising their engagement in the programme and commitment to their ongoing development.

UIPM will continue to seek meaningful ways to empower women leaders, building on this initiative through further learning, connection and professional development opportunities.