BWF and World Academy of Sport (WAoS) have today launched a new global leadership pathway as part of BWF’s extensive development support of badminton worldwide
Consisting of four levels, the Leaders Pathway project provides a unique blend of online and face-to-face elements along with a mixture of award-bearing and executive educational programmes, customised to support the differing levels of stakeholders in badminton across the world.
Four programmes make up the BWF Leaders Pathway, starting with Choosing To Lead.
BWF President Khunying Patama Leeswadtrakul stated: “Together with the World Academy of Sport, we have developed a leadership pathway that from its very first level captures the wisdom, passion and lived experiences of our global badminton family. Whether you are an athlete, coach, administrator, or technical official, your voice and your journey are reflected in this programme. This initiative embodies our commitment to nurturing leadership that is accessible, relevant, and grounded in the realities of our sport. Ultimately, it strengthens our Member Associations and our badminton community. It is designed for everyone who believes in contributing to something bigger than themselves. Importantly, it also supports our gender equity agenda by opening doors for more women to step forward, build confidence, and grow into leadership roles across our sport.
“We each have a profound role to play in shaping the future of badminton, and leadership is central to that mission. It will help our sport grow further, everywhere, with stronger leaders at every level. Over the years, we have been fortunate to be guided by Poul-Erik Høyer, whose dedication and steady leadership have strengthened the federation and inspired all of us. As we enter a new era, the launch of the Leaders Pathway could not be timelier. It reflects our belief in empowering people, elevating potential, and preparing badminton for the opportunities and challenges that lie ahead.”
The first programme Choosing to Lead consists of three, one-hour online courses available from mid-April 2026.
WAoS Director of Digital and Services, Michael Cary noted that: “Together with BWF, we have worked closely for over a decade across many areas of global development. This new pathway has been instructionally designed to provide a unique path of learning with real world examples and allow individuals to immerse themselves in real life scenarios as they progress through the various levels of the pathway.
“Leadership is essential to the long-term success of global sport as federations evolve to meet global changes and seize new opportunities. We are excited to once again launch another first with BWF, this time a global leadership pathway tailored to the needs of the sport. This initiative broadens access through Choosing to Lead and enables specialisation as learners and leaders progress through the pathway.”
Details about the Leaders Pathway can be found on the BWF website: https://development.bwfbadminton.com/bwf-leaders-pathway
About WAoS
The World Academy of Sport (WAoS) is a global leader in sport education, dedicated to developing the next generation of sport leaders through innovative, values-driven learning. Working across major events, international federations, and academic institutions, WAoS delivers programmes that combine academic rigour with real-world application. Its approach emphasises leadership, integrity, and global citizenship, equipping participants with the skills, mindset, and experience required to succeed in the evolving international sport landscape.
Contact: [email protected]
Lloyd Green
BWF Deputy Director of Communications
Mobile: +60 19-384 0556
Dianne Pierre
Communications & Media Manager
Mobile: +60 19-220 4616
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