Two women’s development officers from Oceania recently joined a cohort of emerging female leaders from across the Pacific, Asia and Middle East, to explore how football can create positive social change and strengthen communities.
Cook Islands Football Association’s Teretia Teinaki and Tonga Football Association’s Madison Tenifa represented Oceania in Sydney, Australia at Festival26.
Hosted by Creating Chances, the week provided opportunities from football for good programmes across Sydney through workshops, school visits and peer-to-peer exchanges.
Teretia Teinaki featured on a panel discussion during the festival’s Connect, Lead, Transform Networking Event, sharing experiences from OFC programmes such as This Is How We Football and Just Play.
“For me, it was pretty interesting and I really enjoyed it,” Teinaki said. “There were some similarities, and then also hearing what other people are going through.”
One of the experiences that resonated most for Teinaki was seeing how football was used to support refugee communities.
“They went into schools where some of the kids were refugees, seeing how they use sports, like football, as a vehicle to bring them together,” Teinaki explained. “I think that’s pretty cool how they try to communicate across to those that don’t understand English, how they use football as a tool to connect.”
Joining with Tonga Football Association’s Madison Tenifa as the two representatives from the blue continent, Teinaki expressed her gratitude for collaboration.
“I think she was the best person to go with,” Teinaki expressed. “It was our first time meeting but we spoke as if we’ve know each other before. She’s doing some great work in her federation.”
OFC Inclusive Oceania Manager Tom Gamage said the opportunity for the pair to connect with other emerging leaders is an important connection.
“Festival26 is a perfect example of the impactful legacy of major sporting events,” said Gamage. “The ability to share, educate and connect with female leaders from across the world is something we truly value,”
“We are looking forward to more opportunities across Oceania to grow football in the region.”
Reflecting on the experience, Teinaki expressed her appreciation towards the cohort, facilitators and OFC’s support. Teinaki encouraged other young leaders in football to step forward into opportunities like these.
“There is opportunity there, but it’s up to you whether you take it or not. Take that step, and go for it.”