Pairs to Glory’s International Liaison Officer, Ghada Jurdi, Speaks at Global “Women in Sports Conference – Riyadiya 2025” in Riyadh

Pairs to Glory Foundation is proud to recognise the remarkable contribution of our International Liaison Officer, Ghada Jurdi, who was recently invited as a panellist at the prestigious Women in Sports Conference – Riyadiya 2025, held from November 9–11 at the Crowne Plaza Riyadh RDC Hotel & Convention in Saudi Arabia.

The event, hosted by Kotinos Sports, brought together global leaders, esteemed dignitaries, and celebrated athletes including HRH Princess Reema Bint Bandar al Saud, Kotinos Sport CEO Ahmad Anani, and Olympic gold medallist and World Champion Allyson Felix.

A Spotlight on Legacy, Leadership, and Women’s Empowerment

Ghada was featured as a panellist in the powerful segment, “Legacy Beyond the Podium,” where she joined an exceptional lineup of accomplished women:

• Astou Bale N’Diaye, Senegalese Olympian, WNBA champion, and three-time African Cup winner
• Helena Wurf, President of Women in Sport Australia and Chief of Staff at SURJ Sports Investment
• Ibtihaj Muhammad, American Olympic medalist, World Champion, and the first woman to compete in the Olympics in hijab
• The session was moderated by executive TV producer Mohammad Saadoun.

Ghada’s Message: Sport as a Lifeline and a Catalyst for Change

In her inspiring address, Ghada spoke about the resilience of women in Lebanon amid financial crisis, political instability, and social barriers. Drawing from her extensive work in international football and community empowerment, she emphasised how sports and education open doors especially for girls and young women navigating hardship.

“Platforms like these do more than bring people together,” Ghada said. “They amplify voices, open opportunities, and spark conversations that lead to real, lasting progress… When women are given the stage and the support they deserve, the entire sports ecosystem becomes stronger, more innovative, and more inclusive.”

Her words echoed the core mission of Pairs to Glory: using sports as a tool for empowerment, healing, and transformation, especially in vulnerable communities.

A Leader in Global Sports Development

Beyond her role with Pairs to Glory, Ghada brings years of experience and accomplishment:

• Former National Football Teams Manager in Lebanon
• Former Assistant National Football Teams Manager of Guam
• Certified National Athletics Referee with the Lebanese Athletics Federation
• Holder of AFC Level 1 & 2 Futsal Coaching Licenses—the only futsal license holder in Guam
• Active volunteer supporting Goal Ball, Gymnastics, Beirut Marathon, and Special Olympics Lebanon

Her wide-ranging contributions reflect her passion for serving communities both on and off the field.

Building a Global Network for Women in Sports

Ghada’s participation at the Riyadiya 2025 conference strengthens Pairs to Glory’s international partnerships and amplifies our advocacy for gender equality in sports. Also present at the event was Jill Espiritu, Guam Football Association Head of Communications and Commercialisation. At Pairs to Glory Foundation, we celebrate Ghada Jurdi’s leadership, her dedication to women in sports, and her global impact. Her voice continues to inspire young women everywhere to dream beyond borders.