Lead Your Way program launches on International Women’s Day

It was a double celebration on Sunday with the Lead Your Way program’s WA launch at Sunny Social in Karrinyup fittingly coinciding with International Women’s Day.

Two incredible panellists – Naomi Gianoncelli and Tiffany Ferguson-Blight – spoke in front of the group of participants involved in this year’s program, designed specifically for women and gender diverse leaders who are already influencing community football.

Gianoncelli, awarded the 2025 BHP Community Coach of the Year for her work at Whitford Football Club, has recently started as Women’s Operations Coordinator for West Perth’s WAFLW program.

Ferguson-Blight is a former Lead Your Way participant and current Rogers Cup Head Coach at Perth who was recently appointed as Development Coach with the West Coast’s AFLW side.

“It was a pleasure to be involved in the Q&A panel for the Lead Your Way launch event,” Ferguson-Blight said.

“With the event falling on International Women’s Day, it seems fitting that the room was full of incredible examples of the women who drive our sport at all levels, from grassroots through to the elite.

“The event was a great opportunity for the women in the 2026 cohort to meet, network and build connections that will help see them through the program and the season.

“In my experience, these networks and connections are some of the most valuable things gained from programs like this, and it was fantastic to also get to meet and learn from the wonderful role models in the room.”

The program runs from March through to October, diving into a mixture of in-person and online experiences that are practical, educational, and an opportunity to connect with others.

Among this year’s group are committee members, board members, executives, coaches and those involved in umpiring.

“Lead Your Way is all about backing the women who are already shaping our game,” WA Football’s Manager of Female Programs and Experience Hayley Bullas said.

“Many women have shared experiences within this space, and it was special to be able to connect over this and know that you aren’t alone.

“To launch on IWD made it even more impactful, bringing together incredible leaders and game changers who are driving real change was powerful.”