Empowering Girls Through Sport: Safe Pathway Workshop in India Promotes Gender Equality and Positive Coaching

As part of the ongoing Girls Positive and Safe Coaching Pathway initiative, led by TAFISA and supported by Nike, the ITTF Foundation recently co-hosted a transformative hybrid workshop in Pune, India, in collaboration with Dani Sports Foundation.

Facilitated by Mayssa Bsaibes from the ITTF Foundation and Aniketh Mendonca from Dani Sports Foundation, with supervision from TAFISA Regional Trainer Julia Tappendorf, the workshop brought together 18 participants from diverse organisations, professions, and gender identities. This session marked another important step in advancing gender equity and safeguarding in sport.

A Safe Space in an Underrepresented Context

Conducting this workshop in India was particularly meaningful, as in many local contexts, gender equality and safe sporting environments remain underdiscussed. This made the workshop a vital platform to raise awareness and catalyse change.

Throughout the day, participants explored the power of coaching beyond performance, seeing it as a tool for social transformation. Emphasis was placed on how coaches can shape the way girls experience sport, leadership, and self-worth, particularly by creating emotionally safe, respectful, and empowering spaces.

Addressing Body Image, Confidence, and Mental Health

One of the workshop’s core discussions centered around the societal and cultural pressures that influence girls’ confidence, especially regarding body image and self-esteem. Participants examined how appearance-based teasing, body talk, and performance anxiety manifest in sports settings, and how they can respond sensitively and constructively.

The session also tackled the importance of body-positive and stigma-free spaces, urging coaches to challenge harmful norms and foster inclusive environments. Mental health was another central theme. Issues such as anxiety, isolation, and self-doubt were openly discussed, along with the essential role coaches play in recognising warning signs and guiding girls to appropriate support networks. Creating a sense of belonging and building emotional resilience emerged as key responsibilities for any coach or trainer working with girls in sport.

Breaking Taboos Around Menstrual Health

The topic of menstrual health, often overlooked or avoided in sport, was also brought into open discussion. By confronting taboos and encouraging dialogue, the workshop promoted a coaching culture where menstruation is understood, accommodated, and normalised, ensuring that no girl feels excluded from sport because of her cycle.

A Lasting Impact Through Reflection and Action

Using scenario-based role plays, real-life case studies, and group reflections, the workshop became a space for mutual learning and shared commitment. Participants left not only with new knowledge and strategies, but also a renewed purpose: to use their roles to uplift girls and protect their well-being through sport.

Post-workshop, participants will continue to review the provided resources and apply them within their own communities and coaching environments. A structured follow-up process will ensure ongoing engagement and support, sustaining the impact and legacy of the session.

Looking Ahead

With the success of the Pune workshop, the ITTF Foundation continues to expand its contribution to the Girls Positive and Safe Coaching Pathway. Additional workshops are planned in cities across India, aiming to build a wider movement for gender-equitable, safe, and inclusive coaching practices. Stay tuned as we continue this important journey in empowering girls through sport.