The final conference consisted of sharing project results, successes and learnings, research, lived experiences and the project’s future legacy.
Holtion Orhani from the Sports University of Tirana presented research findings from the All In Plus (joint EU-Council of Europe) and GEIN projects, showing how evidence and data can help advance gender equality in sport. He underlined that while awareness and policy have improved, many organisations still face challenges in putting equality into daily practice. The discussion highlighted how research and collaboration between universities, federations, and institutions can turn knowledge into action.
These insights were brought to life in the session “Women in Sport: Stories of Empowerment and Resilience.” Speakers shared personal perspectives from different levels of sport: from policy to grassroots. Rachele Menga from UN Women Albania spoke about national efforts to promote gender balance and women’s leadership in sport. Edith Zuschmann, CEO and President of 261 Fearless Inc., shared her inspiring story of perseverance and empowerment through running. Dorarta Koka, motivational speaker, and Prof. Assoc. Dr. Rigerta Selenica, lecturer and mentor at the Sports University of Tirana, reflected on leading with heart and motivating young women to stay in sport. The voice of elite athlete and student Marinela Bici added a powerful message from the new generation of female athletes in Albania.
Together, these stories illustrated how lived experiences confirm what research shows. That visibility, mentorship, and supportive networks are vital to creating truly equal opportunities in sport.
The Final Conference included a Hackathon for innovation in gender equality in sports organised by students from Xamk.