The World Federation of the Sporting Goods Industry (WFSGI) and the Federation of the European Sporting Goods Industry (FESI) have endorsed the launch of Global Game Shapers (GGS), an international network designed to accelerate gender equality and empower female leadership in the sporting goods sector.
The initiative was unveiled at a launch event in London at the Pentland Brands office. The founding members are Emma Zwiebler (WFSGI), Céline Del Genes (Decathlon), Tamara Friessnegg (O’Neill), Margit Gosau (Sport 2000), Charline Berry (Specialized), Ger Wright (Frasers Group), Charlotte Cox (formerly of Pentland EMEA), Ariane Gatti (FESI) and Lena Haushofer (ISPO).
The full-day program included workshops, keynotes and panels with participation from industry leaders and change agents. Laura Youngson, CEO of IDA Sports, offered insights into inclusive leadership and impact, and there was a Spotlight Session hosted by McKinsey.
Global Game Shapers supports empowerment
GGS emerged from a conversation at ISPO Munich 2024 that identified gender representation as a critical gap. Women currently hold only 8.5 percent of CEO roles in the sporting goods industry. “We realized the need for a dedicated platform and took action so women in our industry can connect, support each other and drive real change,” said Cox.
“This isn’t just about representation—it’s about unlocking the full potential of our industry,” added Emma Zwiebler. “Global Game Shapers provides a space for mentorship, knowledge-sharing, and leadership development to ensure the next generation of women leaders can thrive.
GGS is built around mentorship, knowledge-sharing and the active involvement of male allies. It promotes a collective leadership approach guided by six values: community, empowerment, inclusivity, knowledge-sharing, future leadership development, and purpose over profit.
Endorsed by industry association
The network is backed by both Emma Zwiebler, CEO of WFSGI, and Ariane Gatti, Senior EU Affairs Manager at FESI, who call on industry stakeholders to engage with and support the platform as it grows into a global force for systemic change.
Stakeholders, brands, and individuals across the sector are encouraged to support the platform and participate in future phases.
For more information or to get involved, visit Global Game Shapers on LinkedIn or contact founders@globalgameshapers.com.
