Some of the most influential women in sports across Africa will grace the 2021 Ladies in Sports conference on May 7, 2021 at the Eko Hotel and Suites, Lagos, to share their invaluable experiences and discuss a very important theme: “Power in Representation”.

As usual, the annual event will highlight and celebrate the remarkable achievements of women in sports. This time, with emphasis on women officials, through South African Akhona Makalima and Nigerian Mimisen Iyorhe.

In January, Makalima made headlines as the only woman referee selected for the U20 African Cup of Nations which took place in Mauritania. While Iyorhe was part of the all-female referee team that made history at the 2020 African Nations Championship (CHAN) as the first ever women to officiate a match at a senior CAF men’s tournament.

The event will also feature the only female Chief Executive Officer of any football club in Tanzania, Barbara Gonzalez, as well as the first female head coach of Kenya’s basketball team, Australian Liz Mills, who became the first woman to lead a men’s national basketball team to a major continental tournament.

“Not only have these incredible role models showcased the limitless potential of women in sports, they have also blazed a trail for more women and girls to pursue a career in the male-dominated space.

“As we look forward to having more women get into decision making roles and have great impact, we are honoured to hear the incredible stories of these women at the LIS conference to inspire more change,” said Tega Onojaife, Founder of the Ladies in Sports International.