As applications open for the 2025 FISU Student Ambassadors programme, there is a palpable excitement among current ambassadors from different corners of the globe. These dedicated students have taken significant steps towards organizing National Academies and shaping the future of university sports leadership. Their experiences exemplify a powerful opportunity to inspire the next generation of sports leaders.
The FISU Student Ambassadors have been instrumental in engaging students through national volunteer academies and volunteer training programs, creating platforms that enhance university sports within their countries. Initiatives have taken root since 2017 in countries like Argentina and Brazil, paving the way for other nations to follow suit.
Insights from Current FISU Student Ambassadors
We had the privilege of speaking with ambassadors from various countries, including Yerin Loh (Republic of Korea), Antonela Koroveshaj (Albania), Mirriam Libati (Zambia), Ivana Anicic (Croatia), and Diana Barasa (Kenya). Each of these individuals shared their unique experiences while planning and executing these academies.
Yerin Loh, Republic of Korea
Yerin Loh noted the vibrant energy and enthusiasm at the recent 2025 FISU Academy held in Sejong, South Korea. The strong turnout, with 110 applicants narrowing down to 30 selected participants, reflects a growing interest in university sports. Collaborating with the Korean Sport and Olympic Committee, the academy included engaging lectures and team projects that focused on understanding FISU and the Student Ambassador Programme. The event concluded successfully, leading to a follow-up academy planned for June in Seoul.
Antonela Koroveshaj, Albania
For Antonela Koroveshaj, the emphasis on cultural identity and mentorship in Albania’s national academy made her experiences deeply fulfilling. Organized with the Albanian University Federation Sport, the academy integrates national heritage into its sports education. This initiative emphasizes community engagement, encouraging students to develop local projects that inspire youth participation in sports. Additionally, the mentorship opportunities provided invaluable insights from experienced professionals, further enriching the participants’ growth in sports leadership.
Mirriam Libati, Zambia
In Zambia, Mirriam Libati described her involvement with the ZUSA Volunteer Leaders Academy as incredibly rewarding. The academy provides a comprehensive experience for potential sports leaders through both online and offline sessions. This unique format allows participants to work closely with local sports organizations, offering practical experiences that are crucial for building professional networks within the sports industry. The collaboration with the national sports federation enhances the initiative’s reach and impact, making it an essential stepping stone for aspiring leaders.
Ivana Anicic, Croatia
Ivana Anicic’s insights from Croatia’s UniSport ViLA academy highlight a well-rounded approach to sports education. This hybrid program combines online learning with hands-on experiences, focusing on key areas like event management, media in sport, and leadership. Participants engage in immersive workshops spanning several days and culminate their training with real-world volunteering experiences at major events. This blend of theoretical knowledge and practical application is pivotal in shaping future sports leaders.
Diana Barasa, Kenya
Diana Barasa reflected on Kenya’s national academy, which uniquely serves as a platform for former FISU Student Ambassadors to unite and share their experiences for the first time. This initiative fosters a strong network of committed student leaders, promoting shared learning and collaboration. It is a significant milestone in Kenya’s journey towards structured leadership development in university sports, empowering ambassadors to inspire new volunteers.
Inspiring Future Leaders
In Costa Rica, the focus remains on empowering a new generation of university sports leaders. Jackeline Torres Vargas emphasized the goal of not just training but inspiring students to realize their potential as future FISU Ambassadors. After transitioning to an online format in 2025, the initiative aims to provide equal opportunities for students nationwide.
This ongoing ambition—across various countries and cultures—demonstrates a collective commitment to nurturing future leaders in the realm of university sports. The sheer diversity in approaches bolsters the strength of the FISU Student Ambassadors’ mission to encourage leadership through engagement, mentorship, and community involvement.
Join the Movement
For those intrigued by the possibility of becoming a FISU Student Ambassador, the application process is currently open. Member federations are extended invites to nominate candidates, allowing students to embark on their journey in sports leadership. Following the training scheduled for September 2025, students earn the title of FISU Student Ambassador for one year, during which they will create actionable plans to support the development of university sports in their respective nations.
Embracing the challenges of leadership in sports can seem daunting. Still, the testimonies of current ambassadors inspire hope and reveal a positive outlook for the future of university sports across the globe. Engaging in this initiative not only enhances their understanding of international sports but also equips them with unique tools to uplift their communities and inspire future generations.
As the applications remain open, interested individuals can reach out for more information and take the first step towards influencing the landscape of university sports leadership.
Given the palpable enthusiasm surrounding the 2025 FISU Student Ambassadors programme and the invaluable mentorship and training the current ambassadors have received, this initiative undeniably represents a significant leap toward creating a robust future for sports leadership. Whether in Kenya, Albania, Zambia, or Croatia, the underlying theme remains the same: inspire, empower, and lead, significantly impacting the next generation of sports leaders.
For further inquiries, potential candidates are encouraged to contact the program organizers through ambassadors@fisu.net. Let this be the year where you take your first steps toward becoming an inspiring leader in university sports!
