URC Opens 50 Free Leadership Academy Places for Young Women Around the World
Women aged 18–26 have until November 30 to apply for the 2027 program, which offers mentorship, professional development and potential career opportunities in international sport.
Women and DevelopmentYouth and Enterprise
PANM — The United Rugby Championship (URC) has opened applications for its 2027 Women's Leadership Academy, offering 50 young women an opportunity to develop professional skills and build connections across the international sports industry.
Applications are open to women aged 18 to 26 from around the world, including African countries, and close on November 30, 2026.
The program is free and combines interactive online workshops with mentoring from experienced professionals in sport, business and media.
### Creating Pathways Into the Sports Industry
The Academy focuses on opportunities beyond athletic competition, including broadcasting, communications, event management, sponsorship, business operations and leadership.
Participants will engage with specialists working across international sports organizations and learn about the professional skills required to pursue careers in the industry.
The 2027 speakers include South African broadcaster Motshidisi Mohono, media professional Elma Smit, World Rugby official Deirdre O'Sullivan and other international industry leaders.
### Opportunities Beyond the Classroom
Supported by CVC, the initiative aims to connect professional learning with practical industry experience.
One outstanding graduate will be recognized as the Academy's Most Valuable Participant, with an opportunity to gain work experience at the URC Grand Final and access an internship opportunity within the global sports industry.
The Academy also works to reduce barriers that can prevent young women from accessing career-development opportunities.
### How to Apply
Interested candidates must submit an online application that includes a short video introducing themselves, their interest in sport and their career ambitions.
The official application form specifies a video lasting no longer than three minutes and states that professional video production is unnecessary.
Applications close on November 30, 2026.
Official application: https://wla.unitedrugby.com/application/
