Qatar Foundation (QF) recently launched the Creating Pathways Program, a groundbreaking initiative focused on developing sporting talent among girls aged 12-16 in Qatar. The program aims to elevate the standards of young female athletes by promoting fitness, nutrition, and overall well-being. Led by QF’s Athletics Director Elizabeth McColgan, a former World Champion and Olympic medalist, the program will provide a female-only training environment to encourage participation and skill development among young girls. Olympic gold medalist Sifan Hassan has been announced as the program’s Brand Ambassador, reflecting her dedication to inspiring the next generation of female athletes.
During the launch of the program at the Education City Stadium, Hassan shared her personal journey as a refugee and how running helped her conquer fear and overcome challenges. The celebrated Dutch long-distance runner, who achieved a remarkable treble at the Paris Olympics, emphasized the importance of encouraging young girls to believe in themselves and not be afraid of failure. Hassan’s inspiring words resonated with the audience, highlighting the transformative power of sports in building confidence and resilience among young athletes.
McColgan, who won the women’s 10,000-metre gold at the 1991 Worlds, reiterated QF’s commitment to promoting female participation in sports. The Creating Pathways Program has been designed to prioritize the well-being of female athletes by providing a safe and welcoming environment for training and skill development. With a focus on nurturing a healthy mind and body, the program aims to empower young girls to embrace challenges and pursue their athletic goals with confidence.
QF’s Executive Director of Partnerships and Strategic Alignment, Alexandra Chalat, emphasized the importance of leveraging the momentum of the upcoming FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 to provide more opportunities for women and girls to engage in physical activity. By offering a diverse range of sports disciplines such as Padel, Tennis, Volleyball, Beach Volleyball, and Fencing, the Creating Pathways Program aims to expand beyond track and field and provide broader opportunities for girls to excel in sports. Through this initiative, QF aims to contribute to building a healthier nation and inspiring a new generation of female athletes in Qatar.
Local athlete Ghalya Alharami, a Qatari sportswoman, shared her own experiences and struggles to inspire young athletes to persevere and overcome challenges. By sharing her journey of resilience and determination, Alharami aims to motivate aspiring young athletes to pursue their dreams and believe in their ability to overcome obstacles. The Creating Pathways Program seeks to harness the power of mentorship and role models like Alharami and Hassan to empower young girls and cultivate a lasting passion for sports.
In conclusion, the Creating Pathways Program spearheaded by Qatar Foundation represents a pivotal step towards nurturing female sporting talent in Qatar and providing a platform for young girls to excel in various sports disciplines. With the support of Olympic champion Sifan Hassan and other inspirational athletes, the program aims to instill confidence, resilience, and a love for sports among young female athletes. By creating a supportive and inclusive environment for training and development, QF is paving the way for a generation of empowered and ambitious female athletes who can break barriers and achieve greatness in the world of sports.
