BAL AND SPEAK UP AFRICA LAUNCH THE CAREERS IN SPORTS MENTORSHIP PROGRAM FOR AFRICAN WOMEN

Teaming Up: African LeadHERs (Speak Up Africa) meet BAL4HER” is a mentorship program that addresses the critical need for increased female representation in sports leadership, particularly in the rapidly growing arena of African basketball. The program will pair 10 young African female athletes and aspiring sports industry leaders with 10 female executives in the sports industry. Through monthly workshops, targeted goal-setting, and immersive learning experiences, the mentees will gain essential skills and knowledge to thrive in Africa’s sports industry and become advocates for critical health issues affecting women and girls.

To align with the program goals, the following criteria have been established:

Qualifying Criteria

Required

- Identify as a woman

- Hold an African passport and residence

- Be between 20 to 35 years old

- Have proficiency in English

- Have 2 years of professional experience

- Have an interest in the sports industry

- Have an interest in advocacy or social impact

Preferred

- Have experience in the sports industry (athlete or corporate)

- Is currently involved in advocacy or social impact

Program Requirements

Required

- Attend all modules (monthly, online sessions)

- Participate in the 4-day Networking Trip to visit Mentor

- Support or create a local grassroot project in sports and health

- Prepare a final presentation

- Complete the Individual Development Plan

- Share relevant personal information promotional and reporting purposes (i.e. picture, bio. contact information, etc)

In Season 4, the program meticulously paired six mentees with six seasoned female leaders in the sports industry, ensuring alignment of aspirations and expertise.

‘’I also had the opportunity to travel to the United States for the first time as a young coach, and it was a dream come true. As part of this trip, I had the privilege to visit the Boston Celtics and attend their practice and their game. It was a huge achievement for me, and I was filled with excitement and admiration as I watched the players in action.’’

Fatuma Mukamugema, Allison Feaster Mentee (VP of Team Operations and Organizational Growth, Celtics)

‘’No words could capture the emotions I felt; my childhood dreams came true in a way that surpassed my wildest imagination — the people, the atmosphere, everything was fantastic.’’

Lama Fahmy, Ebony Hoffman Mentee (Assistant Coach for the Seattle Storm)

Join us on this journey