BWF recognised outstanding Member achievements at the fifth edition of the BWF Member Association Awards announced at the 87th BWF AGM in Horsens, Denmark. Each recipient received a US$2,500 equipment grant.
BWF Membership Grant Programme Impact Award
Federación de Bádminton de la República Argentina (FEBARA)
The Argentine Badminton Federation was recognised for ‘Proyección 2036’, a national grassroots mini-badminton initiative launched in 2024.
Targeting Under-9 and Under-11 players with a long-term Olympic development vision, the programme has expanded across six provinces and eight localities, creating a structured and inclusive pathway that combines technical training, education and community engagement.
“The impact we have observed so far goes beyond traditional sporting indicators. We have seen growing interest in mini-badminton, stronger work among affiliated organisations, new localities joining federation activities, and the consolidation of a community committed to the development of the sport,” said Daniel Pallarola, Vice President of FEBARA.
The Argentine Badminton Federation was recognised for its ‘Proyección 2036’ project, a national grassroots initiative.
Participation Award
Rwanda Badminton Sport Federation
The Rwanda Badminton Sport Federation claimed the Participation Award for its ‘Badminton Sport for All’ project, which has significantly increased grassroots participation nationwide.
Delivered through schools, community centres and clubs, the initiative engaged over 1,500 participants, including 40 per cent women and girls and more than eight per cent persons with disabilities.
“We were motivated to launch this programme because we are deeply convinced that sport is not a privilege reserved for a few, but a right for all,” said Mukakimenyi Espérance from the Rwanda Badminton Sport Federation.
“This recognition reflects our journey and collective commitment and the continuous efforts to develop badminton on a national scale. We remain committed to building a strong, inclusive and sustainable future for badminton in Rwanda. The best is yet to come.”
Inclusion Award
Badminton Association of England
The Inclusion Award was presented to Badminton England for its ‘A Sport That Cares’ campaign, which established a national framework to promote safer, more inclusive and welcoming club environments.
A central element of the campaign was the introduction of a trained Club Welfare Officer in every club, achieving 91 per cent adoption during the 2025 affiliation process. Through education, workshops and community resources, the initiative engaged more than 400 volunteers and led to a 23 per cent increase in welfare related engagement.
The campaign has strengthened safeguarding standards and embedded a shared commitment to ensuring everyone feels valued and supported within badminton.
Badminton England CEO Sue Storey said: “Every day I see the power that badminton has to change lives. I see clubs opening their doors, welcoming people, and communities working together. For us, creating a caring and welcoming environment for everyone is a critical part of preserving badminton.”
Promotion Award
Badminton Wales
The Promotion Award went to Badminton Wales for its ‘Can You Manage?’ campaign, launched in 2025 to promote their hosting of the British & Irish Para Badminton International.
The campaign challenged perceptions by presenting Para athletes as elite, high performance competitors through a powerful film and coordinated digital strategy.
It generated over 564,000 video views, reached 140,000 users, and achieved more than 15,000 interactions globally.
Supported by extensive live event coverage, the initiative significantly enhanced the visibility, credibility and global perception of Para badminton both during the tournament and after.
Badminton Wales CEO Kelly Aston said: “It is a real privilege and honour to receive this award. We knew that we were able to run and deliver a world-class Para badminton tournament in Wales, but what we wanted to ensure is that conversations around the sport and Para badminton continue long after the event is finished.”
Looking ahead, BWF congratulates all four Member Association Award winners.
The quality and diversity of submissions once again highlights the innovation and commitment of the global badminton community.
Badminton Wales’ campaign challenged perceptions by presenting Para athletes as elite, high performance competitors through a powerful film and coordinated digital strategy.
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