The Football Association of Wales recently launched the 2025 PAWB Mentoring Programme, an initiative designed to support and inspire individuals from Black, Asian, Mixed-Heritage, and Minority Ethnic backgrounds to explore opportunities and take their first steps into roles across Welsh football.
The launch took place on the 30th April at Dragon Park– the FAW’s National Football Development Centre – and brought together an inspiring group of mentees, dedicated mentors, and senior figures from across the football community to kickstart the six-month programme.
The day featured powerful contributions from guest speakers, including former Wales international Robert Earnshaw, who shared his journey, leadership experiences, and words of encouragement during a live Q&A session chaired by Roopa Vyas.
The PAWB Mentoring Programme is an entry-level initiative that provides each mentee with:
- A personal mentor from within the football industry.
- Networking opportunities with senior leaders and professionals across the game.
- In-person and online development workshops.
- Job shadowing experiences and behind-the-scenes access at football organisations.
- Tools and tasks to build confidence, clarify purpose, and grow professionally.
The programme is part of the FAW’s wider commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusion as part of its Our Wales and PAWB EDI Strategy, which aim to ensure football in Wales reflects the diversity of its communities and is accessible to all.
Speaking at the launch, Jason Webber, FAW Senior Equality, Diversity, Inclusion & Manager, said:
“The PAWB Mentoring Programme is a key part of our long-term commitment to driving meaningful change in diversity throughout Welsh football. It reflects our ambition to ensure the game truly represents and includes everyone across Wales, and supports our vision to be a modern, progressive, and sustainable football association for the future.”
Over the next six months, mentees will work closely with their mentors to set goals, explore career opportunities, and build meaningful connections. They’ll also complete a series of development tasks, a job shadowing experience, and a unique networking challenge to engage with leaders across the game.
The programme will culminate in a closing celebration event in October 2025, where mentees will share their journey and progress throughout the programme.
For more information about the PAWB Mentoring Programme and how to get involved in future opportunities click HERE
PAWB Mentoring Launch Video
