Building Connections for Gender Equity in Sports Governance

Building Connections for Gender Equity in Sports Governance: Highlights from the Sport NSW and Minerva Networking and Panel Discussion Event

On Tuesday, 29th October, Sport NSW and Minerva Network hosted an inspiring networking and panel discussion event at Sydney Swans HQ. This event brought Minerva Network mentors and athletes together with sports industry professionals, directors, and emerging leaders, fostering meaningful discussions and connections that further the goal of increasing gender equity in sports governance.

Karen Jones, CEO of the NSW Office of Sport, set the tone for the evening with an impactful welcome address that underscored the event’s collaborative purpose. “Tonight is about two of the most influential organisations in the NSW sports landscape coming together to work toward gender diversity in sports governance,” she shared, highlighting the potential of combining forces to make significant strides in inclusivity.

Belinda Rowe, Chair of the Minerva Network Sports Governance Committee, also spoke, emphasising the role Minerva plays in building a diverse talent pool ready to contribute to sports governance boards. Rowe explained, “At Minerva, we believe that one of the most significant ways we can make an impact is by driving diversity of thought into the business of sports governance.” She described how Minerva works with various organisations, including the government, to provide networking opportunities, share experiences, and enhance capabilities. Beyond offering a pipeline of highly skilled candidates, Minerva equips sports organisations with resources, practical tools, and development programs to help them achieve their diversity goals, setting up leaders for success and fostering environments where diverse perspectives thrive.

A dynamic panel discussion followed, featuring Moya Dodd AO, Joe Pollard, and Karen Robbins, each of whom brought unique experiences and insights on sports governance and the path to achieving gender equity. Moderated by Ellie Laing-Southwood, the conversation explored different pathways to directorship in sport, addressed current governance challenges, and offered actionable steps to create an inclusive future. Laing-Southwood encapsulated the evening’s mission, stating, “…it is important that the path to gender equity in sport is one that allows safe, engaging, and inclusive spaces for all genders to lead, govern, participate, and engage in sport.”

Joe Pollard, an accomplished executive and director in both sport and business, opened the discussion by emphasising that good governance principles are consistent across sectors. She noted, “You have to help the organisation develop its strategy… you have to govern the organisation… and you have to monitor and hold the management to account.” In her experience, stakeholders may vary widely in different organisations, yet striving to work collaboratively with a diverse set of voices is a fundamental part of achieving success.

Former Australian Matilda and widely respected sports director, Moya Dodd AO, shared powerful reflections on the importance of having athletes’ voices heard within sports governance. “Being present in the room and bringing that perspective is crucial,” she explained. “You’re governing a sport played by athletes, so if you don’t have their voices in the room, how do you know your decisions are right?” Dodd’s insights underscored the value of not only appointing diverse voices to sports boards but ensuring they have meaningful influence.

Karen Robbins, Director of Cricket NSW, discussed the steps Cricket NSW has taken to foster gender equity within its constitution. Her approach to navigating this complex process began with a desire to listen, learn, and understand others’ perspectives. Robbins noted, “I wanted to learn, meet everyone, and understand their thinking. I wanted to see where change needed to happen and find the best way to make it happen. It’s taken time, but it’s been a valuable process.” Her words highlight the importance of patience, education, and engaging stakeholders to build broad-based support for lasting, equitable changes.

Throughout the evening, key insights emerged that emphasised the universal standards of good governance, the need to educate memberships on the value of gender equity, and the importance of creating pathways that enable diverse voices—especially athletes—to influence organisational decisions. Each panellist highlighted the unique challenges and rewards involved in striving for gender diversity and shared strategies for integrating these principles within their own organisations.

Stuart Hodge, Sport NSW CEO, closed the formal proceedings by urging those in the Minerva network to seek out board opportunities with state sporting organisations.  Hodge added, “Being a director of a State Sporting Organisation can be incredibly rewarding. The role is not just a position of authority; it’s an opportunity to make a lasting impact on the lives of individuals and communities through the power of sport. Being a director gives you the privilege of influencing and shaping policies that promote inclusivity, diversity, and participation, ensuring that sports are accessible to everyone, from grassroots to elite levels. “

After the formal proceedings, attendees enjoyed a lively networking session, exchanging ideas, exploring potential collaborations, and building relationships that will no doubt support ongoing efforts to create an equitable sports governance landscape in NSW. Feedback was overwhelmingly positive, with attendees praising both the depth of the discussions and the wealth of knowledge shared by the panellists.

Minerva Network extends sincere gratitude to the panellists, co-hosts Sport NSW, the Sydney Swans for hosting, and everyone involved in making this event a success. Together, we are building a stronger, more vibrant community committed to advancing gender equity in sports governance across NSW. For more updates and to learn about future events, head to our website or follow us across our social network: LinkedIn @Minervanetwork @sportnsw - Instagram @Minervanetwork @sportnsw - Facebook @Minervanetwork @sportnsw

View the photo gallery of the event HERE