Celebrating International Women's Day 2026

In this vein, we decided to highlight the work we have done with the women in our Access Captains team. 

Our Access Captains were launched and announced during our Global Summit in Madrid in November 2024. We have recruited a group of diverse individuals from around the world, who have both unique perspectives on accessibility and the passion to improve the landscape of accessibility and sports. Since the launch, we have continued communication with our team through meetings and projects, including our Access Appraisals, to create a well-rounded view of stadium accessibility. 

We aim to operate an intersectional lens for accessibility, understanding that all experiences are different and the importance of establishing a diverse community. 

In this piece, we spoke to two of our Access Captains, Gulnar Mastanova and Gohar Navasardyan. We asked them about their journey in the sports field as women and the advice they would give to other women, as well as ways in which they have fostered the theme of “give to gain.” 

Both Captains have highlighted the pleasure of working as part of the wider AccessibAll team, referring to it as “both an honour and a responsibility.” Gohar noted the dual roles of both representing her country, Armenia, while also learning from her other Captains on an international level. This is why bringing together our Captains has been so important, to open the dialogue and bring together voices who can both teach and learn. AccessibAll have sought out people who are passionate about accessibility, inclusion and diversity; the Captains have noted that ideas can be “shared in an open and collaborative environment,” allowing them the space to bring forward ideas without judgement. 

Both Captains have mentioned that hard work has been a large motivation in their journeys, particularly with sport being a largely male-dominated field. Applying professionalism and clear goals has been a foundation for many women throughout this area of work, in order to prove themselves and carve out a fulfilling career. 

Regarding the theme of ‘give to gain,’ both Captains emphasised the importance of giving back to women in sport and accessibility. One core goal mentioned numerous times was to create more space for women – whether this be through mentorship, providing opportunities, or encouraging women and girls to become more involved in sports governance, volunteering and fan culture. Gulnar also raised the point of community beginning with “simple things, like listening, supporting each other, and celebrating each other’s achievements.” These day-to-day elements can truly build other women up. 

In turn, we are able to take in the unique perspectives women can add to the sports field and the important role women play in inclusive spaces. As Gulnar mentioned, women’s work is not always visible, particularly in sport and accessibility. This can apply to all areas of accessibility, as 41% of women in Europe are care providers, compared to 20% of men, according to the European Institute for Gender Equality. Highlighting the work done by women in all areas of accessibility and disability not only correctly acknowledges and respects them, but can encourage other women to become involved and in Gohar’s words, can “create role models for future generations.”  

When it comes to advice for women – particularly disabled women – looking to have a career in sports, Gohar said: “Believe in your strength and do not be afraid to set ambitious goals. Sport belongs to everyone. Your presence already adds value. If you see that something is not yet fully inclusive, do not see it as a barrier, but as an opportunity to create change.” 

Gulnar said: “Believe that you belong in sport. Your perspective matters. Do not be afraid to speak up, get involved, and take opportunities when they come. Sport should be a space where everyone feels welcome.” 

This further supports the message AccessibAll has championed since 2009. Sport belongs to everyone, and our own unique perspectives and approaches can only add to the matchday experience both on and off the pitch. 

We hope to continue creating more space for women from all backgrounds in sports and accessibility, platforming their voices and providing opportunities to strengthen the community for disabled women. 

We would like to thank Gohar and Gulnar for their contributions to this piece and the work they have done alongside our Access Captains in strengthening accessibility in sports. They are extremely vital pieces to our team.

Published: 08/03/2026