The United Rugby Championship (URC) is opening doors for young women hoping to build careers in the global sports industry through its 2027 Women’s Leadership Academy, with applications now open for the free development programme.
Also see: How rugby continues to shape South African social culture
The initiative will select 50 women aged 18–26 from around the world, offering them access to industry experts, mentorship and opportunities to gain valuable experience in the world of sport.
Applications opened on 5 November 2026 and close on 30 November 2026.
What participants can expect from the 2027 Academy
Now heading into its fifth year, the URC Women’s Leadership Academy has grown into an international development platform for women interested in pursuing careers across the sports industry.
Since its launch in 2023, the programme has connected young participants with experienced professionals from different areas of sport, business and media.
Those selected for the 2027 intake will take part in live, interactive online workshops and mentoring sessions. The programme is designed to help participants strengthen their leadership abilities, gain industry knowledge and develop professional relationships.
The opportunities do not end when the Academy concludes.
One participant will be recognised as the Most Valuable Participant (MVP) at graduation. Alongside the recognition, the successful candidate will have the opportunity to gain practical work experience at the URC Grand Final, as well as an internship opportunity within the global sports industry.
South African voices among international speakers
The 2027 programme features an impressive group of speakers and mentors with experience across several areas of the sporting world.
South Africans will also have familiar names to look out for, including sports presenter Motshidisi Mohono, Elma Smit, who works with Whisper, Lions Productions and The Good, The Scaz & The Rugby, and Michaella Snoeck, Chief Media Officer at Formula E.
Other confirmed speakers include:
- Ann Austin, VP Community Development & Charitable Programs at the Women’s Tennis Association (USA)
- Alicia Sedgwick, communications coach and author (France/UK)
- Courtney Carter, Chief Revenue Officer at Seattle Sounders FC and Seattle Reign FC (USA)
- Deirdre O’Sullivan, Head of Operations and Regional Competitions at World Rugby (Ireland)
- Hollie Davidson, Scottish Rugby Union match official (UK)
- Matthew Thoma, Senior Digital Channels Manager at the URC (UK)
- Michelle Wilson, former Co-President of WWE and CVC Global Sport Group Advisor (USA)
- Sophie Colville, event specialist (UK)
The speakers bring experience from broadcasting, communications, event management, sports administration and commercial leadership, giving participants exposure to the many career paths available beyond the playing field.
Also see: Bongi Mbonambi returns to Cape Town rugby after Sharks departure
Why the URC wants to create more opportunities for women
For URC CEO Martin Anayi, the Academy’s value is becoming increasingly visible through the women who have gone on to gain experience at the organisation’s matches and major events.
Reflecting on the programme’s development, Anayi said seeing former participants become involved in the URC’s operations has been particularly rewarding.
“To now see some of those women working alongside us at our matches and major events is incredibly rewarding,” he said.
He also highlighted the contribution participants make to the organisation, explaining that the programme benefits both the young women involved and the wider sporting industry.
“They’re getting valuable experience, but we’re gaining just as much from having them involved,” Anayi added.
His comments point to an important part of the initiative: creating opportunities for young women to gain practical experience rather than limiting their development to classroom-style learning.
CVC funding helps remove barriers to entry
Financial support is another important part of the Academy’s approach.
Supported by CVC, the programme aims to make professional development more accessible by helping cover expenses that could otherwise prevent young women from participating. These include travel, accommodation and other participation-related costs.
Through its Impact Project, CVC also supports graduates with professional networking, work experience placements, opportunities at major sporting events and further skills development.
The next phase will build on the 2026 initiative by expanding career development opportunities through the URC’s international network.
Collaborations with organisations such as the Kolisi Foundation and WTA Foundation will also form part of these efforts.
Ashley Keenan, Director of Philanthropy at CVC, said the organisation sees sport as a way to create meaningful opportunities for young people.
“The Women’s Leadership Academy gives young women the skills, confidence and connections to build a career in it,” Keenan said.
She also acknowledged the contribution of CVC colleagues around the world, whose involvement through the Global CVC Challenge has helped support the initiative.
How to apply for the 2027 URC Women’s Leadership Academy
Young women interested in applying have until 30 November 2026 to submit their applications.
The programme is open to applicants from anywhere in the world, provided they are between the ages of 18 and 26.
There is no participation fee.
Applicants must submit a short video biography outlining:
- Their passion for sport.
- Their career ambitions.
- Why they would like to become part of the Academy.
Applicants do not need to have their entire career path mapped out before applying. The programme is aimed at young women who are eager to learn, develop their abilities and explore opportunities within the global sports industry.
With 50 places available, the 2027 Academy could offer an important starting point for women hoping to build careers in an industry where representation and access to opportunities remain important conversations.
Apply at: wla.unitedrugby.com/application
For enquiries: wla@unitedrugby.com
Featured image: Supplied
Also see: ‘We should be doing more of this’: Rachel Kolisi applauds son’s rugby match in Langa
Be the first to know – Join our WhatsApp channel for content worth tapping into. Click here to join!
