VAFA’s Lead Your Way 2026 Program Launches Successfully

The VAFA was proud to officially launch the 2026 Lead Your Way program on Sunday 21 June at VAFA HQ, bringing together a passionate group of women leaders from across community football. 

The 2026 cohort consists of 27 participants representing 18 VAFA clubs, highlighting the growing number of women making a significant contribution to the game both on and off the field. Participants hold a range of leadership positions within their clubs, including Presidents, Vice Presidents, Secretaries, Wellbeing Coordinators and Committee Members. 

The Lead Your Way program was developed by the VAFA in response to the strong interest shown by women leaders applying for AFL Victoria’s Lead Your Way program. While places in the AFL Victoria program are limited, the VAFA saw an opportunity to create its own leadership initiative to support and develop more women across VAFA clubland.

The launch event featured a panel discussion with past and current leaders from community football and AFL Victoria, providing valuable insights into leadership, personal growth and creating opportunities for others. Participants also took part in an engaging workshop facilitated by Katrina Stopinski, who explored topics including strengths-based leadership, people-first leadership, delegation and oversight, and having conversations that matter. 

The program aims to connect, support and empower women leaders while building confidence, leadership capability and stronger networks across the VAFA community. 

The journey continues with two online education sessions scheduled for 29 June and 13 July, before participants come together again for a program celebration and wrap-up event on 26 July at VAFA HQ. 

The VAFA would like to thank all participants, alumni, guest speakers and contributors for helping make the launch such a success and looks forward to supporting the next generation of women leaders throughout the remainder of the program.