With the programme starting on 12 September, this programme is a global initiative designed to develop young leaders in university sport.
Open to university students aged 18-25, the programme provides a unique opportunity to engage in international sports governance, develop leadership skills, and promote university sport worldwide.
Among others, the role of the FISU Students Ambassadors includes acknowledging the importance of University Sports as a tool for promoting peace, cohesion and unity, to spread the word about FISU and further encourage all students to be actively involved in sports and volunteering activities while simultaneously promoting gender equality and tolerance.
The year-long programme begins with an online training event on 12–13 September 2026, offering selected ambassadors in-depth insights into FISU’s mission, governance, and major international sporting events. Formerly known as the FISU Volunteer Leaders Academy, the initiative now empowers students to represent their countries and National University Sport Federations (NUSFs) while driving positive change in local and regional sports communities.
The programme offers access to global university sport networks and major events, allowing ambassadors to develop and implement action plans to enhance university sport in their home countries. Participants engage in monthly webinars with expert speakers and industry leaders, collaborate with a global community of student leaders on innovative projects, and actively promote key values such as inclusion, gender equality, and sustainability in sport.
Previous United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland Ambassadors:
2025: Demi Burchett (University of Surrey)
2024: Angelica Operinde (University of Stirling)
2023: Ailsa Gorman (Newcastle University) and Sean Nolan (University of Nottingham)
2022: Rose Wignall (Loughborough University)
2021: Alisa Martin (University of St Andrews)
2020: Elena Mekushina (University of Leeds), Peter Boyes (University of Nottingham) and Veronika Marova (University of Sussex)
2019: Ellis Clark (Sheffield Hallam University)
2018: Adam Pratchett (University of Nottingham)
Please complete the following form to apply for the FISU Student Ambassadors programme:
