WBSC strengthens gender equality efforts as two candidates complete IWGA Women Lead Sports Programme

Reinforcing its commitment to gender equality and the empowerment of women across the World Baseball Softball Confederation (WBSC) community, two WBSC-nominated candidates recently completed the Women Lead Sports Master Programme, organised by the International World Games Association (IWGA) from 24 October to 14 November.

WBSC Baseball Technical Commissioner Shari Reiniger (CAN) and WBSC Europe Executive Board Member Mette Nissen Jakobsen (DEN) - both representing key stakeholder groups within the organisation - took part in the four-session programme. The course was specifically designed to equip women from IWGA member International Federations with essential leadership skills and to strengthen female participation in key roles within the sports movement.

“Being nominated by the WBSC for this Women Lead Sports Master Programme was an honour," Reiniger said. "I am humbled by the belief in me to be part of our global team that is continually taking our game to the next level. I look forward to the LA28 Olympic cycle and hope to inspire our next generation of leaders and women in the game of baseball.”

Nissen Jakobsen shared similar reflections: “I’m grateful for the opportunity to participate in this programme. It has been motivating and inspiring, and I hope we can bring this to many more women in our sport.”

Delivered through interactive online workshops, the programme consisted of weekly two-hour sessions tailored to accommodate participants from various time zones. Led by renowned coach Gabriela Mueller Mendoza, the initiative reflects the growing recognition within the international sports community of the need to increase female representation in decision-making positions.

“I have been able to immediately apply many of my new learnings and skills in my work with fellow colleagues at the WBSC,” added Reiniger, who most recently sat on the WBSC Baseball Technical Commission and currently leads the WBSC Baseball TC Licensing Programme. “I look forward to working together to lead progress - both on and off the baseball field - as we develop our next generation of leaders in the game.”

Nissen Jakobsen concluded: “I have become more aware of the different typologies of people I interact with, resulting in better communication and more productive meetings. Overall, I am now more conscious of the importance of targeted communication.”

Click here or watch the videos below to learn more about the experience of other candidates participating in the Women Leads Sport leadership programme.