Across sport, civic life and social change, a growing group of leaders are widening the pathways into influence – not by waiting for seats at the table, but by building new ones. These women use volunteering, advocacy and community engagement to turn participation into power, helping more diverse voices move from the sidelines into decision-making roles.
British politician, author, and community activist who has long promoted volunteerism among BAME women. A former councillor in Tower Hamlets, she is known for her initiatives supporting Bangladeshi and Muslim women in urban London, encouraging them to get involved in volunteering roles to develop new skills and contribute to their communities.
Ama is a former England netball international and captain who led her team to historic Gold at the 2018 Commonwealth Games. She represented England for nearly two decades, earning 100 caps, and played professionally in leagues across Australia, New Zealand and the UK. Beyond the court, Ama is a qualified lawyer, sports commentator, and advocate for leadership, representation and integrity in sport. She contributes to several boards, drawing on her leadership and analytical expertise to drive improvement and inclusion. Through her work, Ama continues to use her experience and platform to inspire greater diversity, equity and opportunity within sport and wider society.
Michelle is an award-winning leadership expert, former assistant headteacher and government adviser who led Physical Education and school sport programmes around the London 2012 Olympics. She now teaches Conscious Leadership and is an honorary associate lecturer at the University of Worcester. Moore has advised Sport England, the Women’s Sport Trust, SportsAid and the Runnymede Trust on equity and governance. Her bestselling book Real Wins: Race, Leadership and How to Redefine Success (2021) was longlisted for CMI Management Book of the Year, reinforcing her influence in inclusive leadership and social impact.
Annamarie was elected Vice President of World Rowing on 1 January 2026. A former Chairman of British Rowing, her campaign focused on a more inclusive and sustainable future for rowing. She has also served as Vice Chair of the British Paralympic Association, led European Rowing and chairs World Rowing’s Governance Working Group. An Olympian and 1993 World Champion, Annemarie has built a major governance career across sport, including the British Olympic Association, British Horseracing Authority and Cycling Independent Review.
Former GB triathlon star Non Stanford was elected Chair of World Triathlon’s Athletes’ Committee in November 2025 bringing her extensive experience as both an elite athlete and coach to the global stage. Representing Great Britain from 2010 to 2022, Non became World Champion in 2013, finished fourth at the Rio Olympics in 2016, and won the European Championships in 2022. Following her racing career, she coached the GB World Class Programme and continues her coaching journey in Australia. Re-elected at the World Triathlon Congress in October 2025 too, Non will also sit on the Executive Board, giving her a direct voice in the federation’s strategic decisions.
