The 13th BWF Members’ Forum covered four key topics relevant to the community: Capacity Building, Sustainability, Inclusive Badminton, and Events Innovation.
Capacity Building – Member Associations
Presenters:
▸ Ian Wright, Development Director, BWF
▸ Raja Rochdy, Head of Operations, Badminton Confederation of Africa
▸ Juan Pablo Alvarado, Development Director, Badminton Pan Am Confederation
This session provided an overview of the resources and support provided to Member Associations by the BWF to support the growth and development of the sport at a national level.
The session also shared the outcomes a review into the BWF Membership Grant Programme, looking back at the programme’s success, challenges and future direction.
Sustainability
Presenters:
▸ Thomas Delaye, Head of Legal and Governance, BWF
▸ Brian Moesgaard, Events Director, Badminton Denmark
▸ Antoine Jean Diandy, President, Senegal Badminton Federation
▸ Catherine Le Saint, Vice President International Relations, French Badminton Federation
BWF with its membership and the five Continental Confederations are in a unique position to influence positive change on sustainability across our global badminton community.
This session provided an overview of BWF’s approach to sustainability and showcased best practices from our membership.
Inclusive Badminton – Spotlight on Para Badminton & Special Olympics
Presenters:
▸ Jonathan Deering, Badminton Athlete & Health Messenger at Special Olympics Ireland
▸ John Shearer, Head of Continental Development, BWF
▸ Fern Gilders, Head of Tournament Development, BWF
▸ Wojtek Czyz, 4-time Paralympian
▸ Jon-Paul Saint Germain, International Vice President Sport Development, Special Olympics
▸ Wang Yihan, Special Olympics Ambassador, Olympic & World Championships Medallist
The panel discussed the benefits and impacts of an inclusive approach in sport and provided examples of how Member Associations can integrate Para badminton and Special Olympics into their inclusive practices.
Events Innovation
Presenters:
▸ Thomas Lund, Secretary General, BWF
▸ Greysia Polii, BWF Athletes’ Commission Chair
This session introduced innovation in sport and emphasised the importance of innovation in the area of events and event delivery.
The session focused on the 3 x 15 scoring system and shared various stakeholder views on the potential impact for badminton.
