The Asian Football Confederation (AFC) reinforced its strong commitment to advancing women’s roles in football with the launch of the AFC Empowering Women in Football Programme (AEWFP), an innovative online initiative highlighting the various contributions women make to the football industry, both on and off the field.
This six-month programme will provide participants with essential knowledge and skills to better understand the global football ecosystem, promote gender equity and inclusion, and identify and tackle industry barriers using ethical, strategic, and diplomatic approaches.
The programme will examine the significant contributions women have made in football’s history across areas like business strategy, advocacy, brand transformation, executive leadership, and other key aspects of the modern game. It will highlight the importance of diversity and inclusion, showcasing their exceptional role in advancing both Asian and global football.
AFC General Secretary Datuk Seri Windsor John talks extensively about the programme.
“The AEWFP is truly a groundbreaking programme that aligns with the AFC’s continuous championing and promotion of gender equity, inclusivity and integrity,” he said via press release.
“From a historical viewpoint to contemporary leadership, women have long played, and are playing, a powerful role in shaping the football industry. This programme not only honours their immense contributions but also empowers the next generation to drive positive, inclusive change and lead the football business into a future of excellence.
“The AFC places the advancement of our MAs, RAs and the Asian football community as key to realising our Vision of becoming the world’s leading Confederation. The AEWFP is in line with our objective, and we strive to ensure it provides our leaders with the knowledge to continue making impactful decisions that keep to the industry’s best practices, for the betterment of their respective organisations and global football as a whole.”
The AEWFP is the newest initiative from the AFC Academic Centre of Excellence (ACE), established in 2021 to enhance the skills of Asian football leaders. It adds to a prestigious line-up of programmes, including the AFC Football Management Certificate, AFC Football Management Diploma, AFC Certificate in Football Leadership, AFC Certificate in Football Administration and Management, AFC Certificate in Child Safeguarding, and AFC Certificate in Strategy and Planning.
The AEWFP, designed for leaders of the AFC Member Associations (MAs), Regional Associations (RAs), and other football stakeholders, consists of seven modules. These modules address topics such as the strategic influence of women in football business, overcoming barriers, driving organisational innovation, and empowering women in executive leadership roles.
These tailored modules are delivered online, combining theoretical insights, practical activities, and real-world case studies. Participants will graduate with the skills to make decisions that enhance inclusivity, diversity, and integrity, while strengthening women’s impact on the global growth of football in an ever-evolving and competitive environment.
