Leadership Insights from the Women Behind FIFA World Cup 2026™
Make no mistake, although the matches may be played by men, the FIFA World Cup 2026™ is powered by women. At our WORTH Leadership Summit earlier this year, we had the privilege of sitting down with some of the inspiring women behind the world’s largest sporting event. We asked them to share their leadership perspectives, career advice and experiences preparing for the global spotlight. These are some of the takeaways that stood out most.
Know Your Worth
"You have a voice and you don't have to wait for that perfect time to use that voice." — Rehana Din, Chief Operating Officer, BC Pavilion Corporation
Rehana encouraged us to trust our perspectives and speak up, even when we don't have all the answers. Your voice matters, so ask that question, share your ideas, and always advocate for yourself. Natasha Qereshniku echoed this message, reminding us not to get caught up in worrying about what others might think and to take ownership of our own growth and career paths.
"You've got to be your own best advocate." — Natasha Qereshniku, Communications, PR & Partnerships Lead, FIFA World Cup 2026™ Vancouver Host Committee
Build Strong Relationships
"You can't get there on your own." — Jessie Adcock, Leader, FIFA World Cup 2026™ Vancouver Host Committee
By emphasizing that strong partnerships turn ambitious goals into reality, Jessie highlighted the power of collaboration in delivering an event as complex as FIFA World Cup 2026™. Natasha shared how partners from government, transportation, tourism, Indigenous communities, and beyond have come together over several years to prepare for the tournament. By aligning around a common purpose, the work becomes more manageable and more meaningful.
"The relationships and connections you build with your co-workers this summer will make the experience for thousands of visitors." — Rehana Din
Don't Wait Until You Feel Perfectly Qualified
"If you want an opportunity and it comes your way, you shouldn't be afraid to jump on it." — Natasha Qereshniku
When asked what advice they would give to women earlier in their careers, the panelists' answers underscored a common message: stay open to unexpected opportunities and don't let self-doubt hold you back. Rehana Din encouraged us to take opportunities as they arise and give them our best effort. You never know where an opportunity might lead or what you might learn about yourself.
"If it's something you're passionate about, then just do it." — Maya Lange, Vice President of Global Marketing, Destination British Columbia
Keep Your Options Open
"Make decisions that branch into options." — Jessie Adcock
Think beyond the next job title and focus on building skills and experiences that create future opportunities. Rather than following a perfectly linear path, Jessie emphasized the importance of staying adaptable and making choices that keep doors open. By developing transferable skills and remaining open to new possibilities, we can build careers that evolve alongside our interests and ambitions.
Leadership in One Word
When asked to describe their leadership style in a single word, each panelist offered a unique perspective:
Collaborative: Rehana emphasized the importance of teamwork and sharing information.
Caring: Jessie focuses on people first, building teams around individual strengths and creating environments where people can thrive.
Visionary: Maya believes in having a clear picture of the outcome, which will inspire others to help bring it to life.
Empowering: Natasha strives to help others grow into their full potential.
Together, these four words capture many of the themes explored throughout the conversation and offer a powerful reminder that there is no single way to lead. Leadership, as Rehana noted, is most effective when it is authentic.
While FIFA World Cup 2026™ will bring millions of eyes to Vancouver and British Columbia, the women leading this work reminded us that the event's greatest legacy may not be measured in attendance numbers or economic impact. It will be found in the people who step forward, take opportunities, empower others, and help shape the future of our industries.
Michelle Collens, Director of Tourism and Destination Events for the City of Vancouver, said it best: "Remember, leadership isn't about playing the game. It's changing how the game is played."