NEWLANDS – Western Province Cricket Association (WPCA) has applauded one of its stalwarts following her return from a successful launch of the fourth edition of the International Cricket Council’s 100% Cricket Future Leaders Programme held in Dubai this month.
WPCA Company Secretary Ameena Smith was among 15 mentees who were selected for the latest edition designed for cricket administrators that form the latest cohort with a renowned list of influential names from across the cricket landscape. learning.
The programme began with a Dubai workshop from 20 October 2024. Launched in 2021, the Future Leaders Programme has established itself as a key strategic initiative in the ICC’s ambition to address the underrepresentation of female leaders within cricket, and the application process for places on the 2024/25 programme for administrators was met with strong interest.
Under the mentorship of Belinda Clark AO, a former Australian captain and ICC Hall of Famer, participants will gain essential skills to advance their careers. The programme also offers online mentorship opportunities, pairing emerging leaders with experienced professionals to foster career development and support. These mentees will benefit from a prominent panel of mentors during an enhanced ten-month programme.
Smith who was paired with mentor Archana Chopara – Executive Director HR, Disney Star is delighted being part of this initiative.
“Being part of the ICC 100% Cricket Future Leaders Programme is an incredible honour. This initiative is not only empowering but also instrumental in driving the growth of women’s cricket globally,” said Smith.
“The knowledge and experience I will gain over the next 10 months through this program will no doubt be invaluable, and I am eager to implement these insights to contribute to the development of the sport and inspire future generations.”
“I am excited to work with Archana Chopara as my mentor. Her guidance and expertise in the field will provide me with a deeper understanding of effective leadership and organizational skills, which I am excited to bring into my role.”
The WPCA President Johannes Adams stated that learning is a lifelong activity in the dynamic world of sport. “We are very grateful for the opportunity offered to our company secretary to be part of the Cricket Future Leaders Programme. Her participation will serve as an inspiration to others.”
“On behalf of WPCA, I would like to thank the ICC and Cricket SA for making Ameena’s participation in the course possible. We wish Ameena a great and enjoyable journey through the course. Best of luck with the course, and know that we, the WPCA, are all behind you for its successful completion.”
“Learning and development is the path to personal and operational excellence. Ameena has been afforded a fantastic opportunity through the ICC and CSA, and the benefactors of this wonderful initiative will be Ameena and WPCA. We believe that the new learnings, and increased confidence that Ameena will gain from this experience will positively influence her personal development and leadership aspirations,” commented the WPCA CEO, Corrie van Zyl.
