We take a look back at the recent WEDSA Champions Unite event, an inspirational evening with the winners of the Wales Ethnic Diversity Sports Awards.
We recently held the WEDSA (Wales Ethnic Diversity Sports Awards) Champions Unite networking event, a powerful gathering that brought together the winners from last year’s inaugural WEDSA Awards.
The event was led by Rajma Begum, the founder of WEDSA and National Sports Diversity Manager at WCVA. It provided a platform for these exceptional athletes and figures in Welsh sport to share their personal journeys and discuss the future of diversity and inclusion in sport. The evening celebrated the success of these individuals while fostering connections across the sporting community, aiming to inspire future generations.
The evening began with a heartfelt welcome speech from Lindsay Cordery-Bruce, Chief Executive of WCVA, who praised the achievements of the sporting individuals and highlighted the crucial role that events like WEDSA play in promoting diversity and inclusion in Welsh sports.
CHATTING WITH A CHAMPION
A queue of excited children formed to take pictures with Steve Robinson and his title belts
The event featured a memorable fireside chat with Welsh boxing legend Steve Robinson, who brought along his championship belts.
PARISIAN PARALYMPIAN
Paralympian and Sportswoman of the Year, Funmi Oduwaiye shares her story
Funmi Oduwaiye, the 2023 WEDSA Sportswoman of the Year, took to the stage as a panellist, fresh from her remarkable experience at the Paris Paralympics. Funmi shared how the support of the Paris crowd made the experience unforgettable.
NO. 1 RANKED TENNIS PLAYER
Kimberly Mpukusa’s emotional story of her successes in tennis and the sacrifices of her family was truly inspiring
Another highlight came from tennis star Kimberley Mpukusa, the first Black woman to be ranked No.1 in tennis in Wales. She shared how essential it was to have a coach who understood her cultural background and needs, a story that tugged on the heartstrings and resonated deeply with many in the audience. Her success emphasised the importance of culturally sensitive coaching and the impact it can have on an athlete’s journey.
INSPIRING THE NEXT GENERATION
One of the most encouraging outcomes of the event was its impact on the younger generation. Of the 150 attendees, 70 were children and many left feeling motivated and inspired to pursue their own sporting dreams. It was heartening to witness so many young people connect with role models who not only shared their backgrounds but also their passion for sport.
POSITIVE FEEDBACK
Feedback from attendees was positive, with 97% recommending the event to others. Here are just a few of the comments we received:
- ‘It was so good to see so many different cultures in the event,’
- ‘It was cool and I got to meet a famous boxer and footballer. Also, it was inspiring listening to their stories.’
- ’Inspiring & an essential event to highlight the contribution of minoritised communities & remind us all of us what is possible as individuals & as community.’
KEEPING INCLUSIVITY FIRMLY ON THE AGENDA
The evening closed with a message from Brian Davies, CEO of Sport Wales, who emphasised Sport Wales’ commitment to the mission of WEDSA. Brian reaffirmed the importance of inclusivity in sports and expressed his continued support for WEDSA’s work.
HOW YOU CAN GET INVOLVED
The WEDSA Awards will now be a biennial event, with the next awards set for 2025.
- Sponsors: We are looking for new sponsors to support the WEDSA mission – to spotlight ethnic minority athletes, allowing them to radiate as inspirational figures and role models within their respective communities. If you’re interested, please contact us at rbegum@wcva.cymru. A huge thank you to our current sponsors for their continued support.
- Volunteers: If you would like to become a WEDSA volunteer, we’d love to hear from you. Email us at rbegum@wcva.cymru.
- Stay connected: Sign up for our newsletter to stay updated on future events, funding opportunities, and more.
- Follow us on social media: Stay connected with WEDSA through our social platforms for updates and ways to get involved.
Instagram: wedsawards
X: @wedsawards
LinkedIn: Wales Ethnic Diversity Sports Awards
THANK YOU
A huge thank you to all the volunteers who played an instrumental role in making the WEDSA Champions Unite event such a success. Your dedication and hard work helped bring this important event to life, creating an inspirational and inclusive environment for everyone who attended. We couldn’t have done it without you!