In a transformative moment for Caribbean sports leadership, the inaugural cohort of the Girls’ Positive and Safe Coaching Pathway program has graduated, heralding a new era of inclusivity and empowerment in the region’s sporting culture.
This groundbreaking initiative, a collaboration between TAFISA, CANOC, and Nike’s Made to Play campaign, brought together 131 coaches and sports leaders across 15 Caribbean nations and 17 disciplines. In a virtual ceremony filled with pride and hope, participants received certifications in two specialized coaching streams, marking a pivotal milestone in fostering safe, equitable, and empowering environments for female athletes.
A vision for equity in sports
With 52 per cent of participants being active female coaches, the program underscored its commitment to amplifying women’s voices in sports leadership. CANOC President Keith Joseph emphasized the broader significance of this achievement, stating, “This is not just a milestone; it is a foundation for change. By equipping coaches to foster inclusivity, we are shaping a Caribbean sporting culture that values equity and empowers women and girls.”
TAFISA Vice President for the Americas, Catherine Forde, highlighted the regional impact, noting, “This pilot program has demonstrated the potential of the Caribbean to lead the way in creating positive change. Our graduates are trailblazers, showing that safe and inclusive coaching is not just a goal but a reality.”
Inspiring personal and community growth
The program’s impact was vividly captured through testimonials from graduates, who shared how the training reshaped their perspectives on coaching and leadership. Barbados coach Ayanna Morgan reflected on the transformative nature of the initiative: “This program taught me that coaching isn’t just about teaching skills—it’s about understanding, connecting with, and empowering your athletes. I’ve already seen a difference in attendance and participation in my track and cricket programs.”
For many, the training offered new tools and strategies to build trust and inclusivity, fostering environments where athletes of all genders can thrive.
A ripple effect across the region
As these newly certified coaches take their expertise back to their communities, the program’s impact is already resonating. From increased participation to enhanced athlete engagement, the ripple effects are transforming sports culture across the Caribbean.
Programme Co-ordinator Ytannia Wiggins called the graduation a catalyst for change: “This graduation represents a pivotal step toward reshaping the future of coaching and leadership. It’s a moment to honor the progress we’ve made and to embrace the opportunities that lie ahead as we continue to build inclusive and transformative spaces for women in sport.”
Looking ahead
The success of this inaugural cohort has set the stage for future expansion. TAFISA and CANOC are committed to scaling the initiative, with plans to reach even more coaches and athletes across the region in the coming years.
This graduation not only celebrates the achievements of its participants but also reflects a united Caribbean sporting community’s mission: creating a future where every athlete, regardless of gender, can succeed.
