Cardiff Met partnership wins top honour for empowering future women leaders

Cardiff Metropolitan University has been recognised as part of an award-winning partnership at the Welsh Sport Association Sport Industry Awards 2026, with the Team Wales’ LeadHERship Programme winning the best collaboration initiative award.

The programme, delivered by Team Wales in partnership with Cardiff Met and RBC Brewin Dolphin, was recognised for bringing together sport and business to support, empower and develop the next generation of women leaders. The award was presented at the Welsh Sport Association Sport Industry Awards on Thursday 4 June, with the LeadHERship Programme named winner in a category that also included Cardiff City FC Community Foundation and Actif Sport & Leisure.

The LeadHERship Programme was created to provide women across sport and business with a space to learn, share experiences, build confidence and develop the networks needed to progress in leadership roles.

The programme has been supported by Dr Kerry Harris and Dr Sofia Santos from Cardiff Met, alongside partners from Team Wales and RBC Brewin Dolphin with contribution of Belinda Houghton-Jones, Laura Williams, Prof Katie Thirlaway and Prof Rachael Langford, as well as the inaugural LeadHERship cohort and the guest speakers who helped shape the learning experience.

The LeadHERship Programme was designed to empower women in leadership roles across sport and business, with objectives including building confidence, raising awareness of gender dynamics, developing support networks and helping participants navigate professional environments. The year-long programme includes residential sessions, online learning and access to inspirational leaders from both sectors.

Laura Williams, Assistant Director Sport, Physical Activity & Health, said: “We are absolutely thrilled to see the LeadHERship programme recognised in this way. This initiative was built on the belief that collaboration between sport and business could create real change, and working alongside Team Wales and RBC Brewin Dolphin has enabled us to reach and support an exceptional network of inspiring women. Dr Kerry Harris and Dr Sofia Santos have provided outstanding guidance to our first cohort, and we are excited to see how they continue to grow and succeed.”

Cohort two of the Team Wales LeadHERship Programme is expected to be advertised soon.