EWS Committee
Call for applicants: Equality Within Sport Mentoring Programme
The Equality Within Sport (EWS) Mentoring Programme aims to support people working on equality issues within sport organisations across Europe. The programme will create a supportive learning environment where participants can exchange experiences and good practices, learn from one another, receive peer support, and strengthen their knowledge and networks in the field of equality in sport.
Both mentors and mentees are invited to apply.
Duration
September 2026 – May 2027 (8 months)
Participants
The preliminary programme structure includes:
- 5 mentors
- 15 mentees
- 3 mentees per mentor
The final number of mentors and mentees may be adjusted based on the number and profiles of applicants.
Programme structure
The programme will include:
- 4 online mentoring sessions (60 minutes each) during the programme;
- 3 joint online learning and networking sessions (90 minutes each); and
- 1 onsite networking and learning event at the European Sport Platform in Split, Croatia, from 14 to 17 October 2026.
Shaping the programme together
Participants will have the opportunity to contribute to the content and structure of the programme, both during the application process and throughout the programme. The mentoring and joint sessions will be adapted, where possible, to participants’ needs, interests, and the equality issues they are currently working with.
Preliminary schedule
The schedule is preliminary. Exact dates and further practical information will be provided to selected participants.
- Online Kick-off and joint session: 21 September 2026 at 15:00-16:30 CET
- European Sport Platform, Split (in-person event): 14-17 October 2026
- November 2026: Mentoring session
- January 2027: Mentoring session
- February 2027: Mentoring session
- March 2027: Joint online learning and networking session
- April 2027: Mentoring session
- May 2027: Final joint online session and evaluation
What will mentees gain?
As a mentee, you will have the opportunity to:
- strengthen your knowledge and understanding of equality in sport;
- receive guidance and support from an experienced professional working in the field;
- discuss practical challenges related to equality work in your organisation;
- exchange experiences and good practices with peers from across Europe;
- expand your European network in the field of equality and sport; and
- develop ideas and practical approaches that can support equality work within your own organisation.
Who can apply as a mentor?
We are looking for mentors with experience in advancing equality in sport or related fields.
Mentors should:
- have relevant professional or voluntary experience in equality and sport;
- be willing to share their knowledge, experiences, and good practices;
- support mentees in reflecting on practical challenges and opportunities;
- be able to participate in the mentoring programme between September 2026 and May 2027; and
- be committed to creating a supportive, respectful, and inclusive learning environment.
What will mentors gain?
As a mentor, you will have the opportunity to share your expertise, exchange experiences with equality professionals across Europe, expand your European network, and contribute to advancing equality in sport.
Who can apply?
The programme is open to people aged 18 and over who are working or volunteering on equality issues within sport organisations across Europe.
Applicants from countries within the Council of Europe member states are eligible to apply.
Priority will be given to applicants representing ENGSO members and associated member organisations.
Selected participants are expected to commit to the full programme from September 2026 to May 2027 and actively participate in the programme activities, and sign a participation agreement confirming their commitment to the programme.
We value diversity and welcome applications from people of different backgrounds, identities, experiences, and perspectives. We particularly encourage applications from groups that are underrepresented in sport and sports leadership.
Both mentors and mentees are invited to apply. You may also apply for both roles.
How to apply and selection timeline
Both mentors and mentees are invited to apply by completing the following online application form: click here.
Applications close at 18:00 CEST on 15 August 2026.
All applicants will be informed of the outcome of their application by 31 August 2026.
Programme coordination and further information
The programme will be coordinated by the ENGSO Equality Within Sport Committee, with ENGSO Equality Officer Kyra Angerer serving as the programme coordinator and main contact person. For further information, please contact Kyra Angerer at angerer(a)engso.eu.