FAW Youth Conference

FAW Youth Conference

What is the FAW Youth Conference?

At the Football Association of Wales, we believe in the power of young people. Young people aren’t just the leaders of the future but have the drive, skills and ideas to make a positive change in football today.

What to Expect

The FAW Youth Conference is an opportunity to challenge yourself and expand your leadership potential in football while developing your skills and knowledge through a range of workshops, activities, and talks. The conference will provide a great networking opportunity to meet like-minded ambitious young people who aim to positively impact the game in their community and obtain a job in football in the future.

The 2024 FAW Youth Conference will take place both in North and South Wales on Wednesday 21st August at Colliers Park in Wrexham and Wednesday 28th of August at Dragon Park in Newport. Applications are open to young people aged between 12-24 years old.

The Youth Conference is FREE to attend; further information, including how to apply, is provided below

What are the Benefits of Attending?

There are a range of benefits that result from attending the FAW Youth Conference, these can include some of the below.

Develop your Skills & Knowledge

Hear from experts on a range of topics to develop your skills and knowledge.

Network & Share

Connect and engage with participants and special guests in meaningful conversations.

Certificate of Attendance

Obtain a certificate of participation.

Expand your Leadership Potential

Acquire the skills needed to unlock leadership potential.

Be a Part of the Future of Welsh Football

Find out about career and volunteer opportunities in football.

Agenda

8.45 – 9.15am Arrival & Registration
9.15 – 9.45am Welcome & Overview
9.45 – 10.00am Guest Speaker (Young Changemaker)
10.00 – 10.15am Icebreaker Activity
10.15 – 11.30am Building Voices workshop with Children in Wales
11.30 – 12.00pm Break
12.00 – 1.00pm The Hidden Roles of football (CV & Application Building Workshop).
1.00 – 2.00pm Lunch & Networking
2.00 – 3.00pm Being a Change Maker Workshop
3.00 – 4.00pm The Power of Young Voices – Panel Discussion
4.00 – 5.00pm Football Activity
5.00pm Close

Session Information

Building Voices Workshop

The Building Voices (Children’s Rights Workshop) provided by Children in Wales aims to provide participants with a better understanding of Children’s rights and their history, offer insight into Children in Wales and their work, as well as an introduction to the partnership between Children in Wales and the FAW. By the end of the session, participants will better understand Children’s rights and everyday opportunities, as well as how powerful their young voice can be, the change it can make and why their involvement in decision-making is so important.

Speaker

  • Lisa Sanger – Children in Wales.
  • Sophie Birt – Children in Wales.

The Hidden Roles of Football (CV & Application Building Workshop)

The “Hidden Roles of Football – CV & Application Building” workshop is designed to equip participants with the necessary knowledge and skills to effectively apply for various roles within the football industry. Whatever the role aspiration having a well-crafted CV and application can greatly enhance the chances of success. This workshop will be delivered by the FAW’s HR Manager Hannah Hopes and aims to provide practical guidance on creating impressive resumes, cover letters, and applications tailored specifically for football-related positions.

Speakers

  • Hannah Hopes – Head of HR at the Football Association of Wales
  • Kate Shale – HR Advisor at the Football Association of Wales

Lunch & Networking

During the lunch break, all attendees are encouraged to use this time to network with other attendees, speakers and guests.

We will also be joined by several FAW staff members, partners and volunteers who will be on hand to speak with attendees about opportunities to work and volunteer in football and answer any questions attendees may have following the “Hidden Roles in Football” Workshop.

Stalls

  • FAW Officials Department
  • FAW Domestic Leagues Department
  • FAW Womens & Girls
  • FAW Participation Officers
  • FAW Safeguarding Team
  • FAW National Youth Council
  • Children in Wales

Being a Change Maker Workshop

Every one of us holds the potential to be a changemaker. While anyone can take on this role, understanding the steps to effectively make change can be challenging. Essential to being a changemaker is the ability to challenge others, speak out, and gain support from influential individuals. This is crucial for embedding equality, diversity, and inclusion into the core values and daily operations of your club or organisation.

This workshop will equip you with the knowledge, skills, and resources needed to drive meaningful change within your community.

Speaker:

Kelly Davies – Ashoka

The Power of Young Voices Panel

The “Power of Young Voices” panel discussion aims to equip participants and guests with invaluable insight into the influence young people can have on their communities, Clubs and football, no matter their role. It will give opportunity for young people to learn about the qualities and skills required to undertake a career in the game; whilst acknowleding the benefits of working alongside young people. The discussion will focus on the power of young people’s voices and delve into the collaborative working opportunities to support young leaders thrive, inspire others, and drive positive change within their community to become effective young leaders in the dynamic and evolving world of football.

Objectives

Identify qualities and skills found in those leading the way in Football: Explore the core qualities that future leaders in football will require.

Discuss collaborative working: Examine the key skills required for effective collaboration in a multigenerational approach.

Address evolving trends: Analyse the emerging trends and challenges in the football industry and how future leaders can navigate them successfully.

Foster personal development: Provide guidance on personal growth, self-awareness, and continuous learning to empower young leaders in their journey.

Promote ethical leadership: Emphasise the importance of integrity, ethics, and responsible leadership in football.

Inspire action: Motivate young individuals to take on leadership roles and make a positive impact within their community.

Speakers

  • To be announced

Football Activity

To close the Youth Conference there will be an opportunity to learn from a number of FAW staff across all areas of the game. This session will provide an opportunity for attendees to learn on the pitch skills with our coach education team, effective events management with our participation officers, as well as learning the basics of what it takes to be an official in the game.

We encourage attendees to try out all areas of this activity to engage with all areas of the game and learn new skills.

Speakers

Eleeza Khan FAW National Youth Council Chair
Hannah HopesHead of HR at the Football Association of Wales
Kate Shale HR Advisor at the Football Association of Wales
Kelly Davies Ashoka
Lisa Sanger Children in Wales
Sophie Birt Children in Wales
Joe Ledley
Former Professional Footballer & Wales National Team Player (Newport Youth Conference)
Craig BellamyCymru National Team Manager
More Speakers TBC Soon

Registration

Please note that spaces are limited and you are eligible to attend if you can answer yes to the following requirements:

  • Are currently involved in football in Wales or have ambitions to become involved (e.g. Player, Coach, Official, volunteer).
  • Will be aged 12-24 as of the 21st of August 2024 (Wrexham YC) / 28th August 2024 (Newport YC).
  • You have permission to attend from parents/guardians if aged between 12-18.

Please complete the registration form via the link below to apply to attend either the FAW Youth Conference at Wrexham (21st Aug) or Newport (28th Aug).

The application window is now closed. Your place will be confirmed via email by 26th July 2024, pending confirmation that you meet the above criteria. Those who have been unsuccessful will be contacted following this date.

If you require accessibility support or have any questions about the Youth Conference please contact PAWB@faw.cymru