Mentees and mentors on The FA Kickstart: Leaders Mentor Programme supported by Barclays came together for a graduation ceremony at Wembley Stadium in July to mark the end of a successful inaugural course and celebrate the successes of 20 aspiring leaders who have completed the programme.
We launched the Kickstart initiative in 2024, aiming to provide aspiring leaders from historically underrepresented groups within the football industry with the opportunity to gain valuable insight, guidance and support from experienced professionals to develop their experience and become leaders of the future.
The programme, in its first year, has focused on building soft skills such as confidence-building, presenting skills, problem-solving, critical thinking, negotiation skills, high impact communication and authenticity. Mentees have learnt from successful figures across the industry through in-person sessions, one-to-one mentoring and group mentoring to boost their leadership skills and enrich their exposure to meaningful career progression opportunities.
Participants have come from off-the-pitch roles across English football, from grassroots through to the elite game. At the graduation, they were invited on stage to talk through their group learnings from the Kickstart programme and share more about their individual journeys, each with their own unique experiences and findings.
Also in attendance at the event were two footballing icons, former England and Nottingham Forest defender Stuart Pearce and Lionesses legend Rachel Yankey, who shared their experiences and wisdom of leadership on and off the pitch.
Dal Darroch, Head of Diversity and Inclusion Strategic Programmes at The FA, said: “The Kickstart programme was created to empower individuals across the football industry, whatever their background, to grow as leaders and unlock new development opportunities. Our goal from the outset has been to recognise the exceptional talent we have within our industry, and make sure we are supporting their development to ensure their longevity in the football industry.
“A huge congratulations to all of the mentees from our first Kickstart cohort and a thank you to our mentors. Everyone involved has grown in their own unique way, and it’s a real privilege to celebrate that success together at our graduation ceremony at the home of English football. We’ve had many success stories from this cohort with mentees securing exciting roles in the industry. We look forward to welcoming our next group of future leaders later this year.”
Amy Bullock, a course participant working at Women in Football said: “The Kickstart programme has been genuinely transformative for me. After 15 years in football with limited leadership development, this experience has given me the confidence to challenge my thinking and embrace my strengths.
“I've learnt to be courageous, reflective, and to silence the imposter syndrome that often creeps in. It’s been a space to connect, grow, and feel inspired. I’d recommend it to anyone working in the game – the more you invest in it, the more it gives back.”
Niaz Shazad, a course participant working at Bolton Wanderers FC said: “Kickstart has helped me grow as a leader, sharpening my communication and deepening my ability to motivate others.
“The programme has been run with real thought, tailored to what each of us wants to get out of the programme. There’s something for everyone, no matter your level - it’s not just about skills, it’s about instilling confidence, values, and making connections with like-minded future leaders.”
We would like to thank Barclays, Guider and all supporting organisations and experts that have taken part in year one.
Further details around year two of the programme and the application process will be confirmed soon.