The International Canoe Federation Women’s Symposium, on its second day, hosted fruitful discussions on how individuals can make a positive impact on the global environment for women in paddlesports.
The speakers called for a shift in the attitude towards women in coaching across all levels and suggested practical measures to achieve equity in the sport.
This philosophy was embedded in the first speaker, with former ICF President José Perurena López, leaving the room with the message ‘You can too’, in reference to the example he has seen set by many of his female colleagues, including the current Vice-president of the ICF Cecilia Farias.
"We need equity, not equality, and this means the system needs to change"
Today’s panel on the positive impact of female coaches, featuring Nathalie Siegrist, Lorraine Lafreniere, and Kim Crane, challenged the attitude of women in coaching at all levels.
Lochlann Walsh, OFI Gender Equality Commission Chair, delivered some clear and practical actions which we can take at all levels and walks of life to create equity in sport.
‘We need equity, not equality, and this means the system needs to change'.
The symposium concluded by focusing on personal growth and inspiring change in communities and countries.
The event was hailed as a commendable milestone towards a brighter future for paddlesports, and the Irish Canoe Union has expressed its appreciation to the International Canoe Federation for their commitment to empowering women in this field.
