GEOS Project Moves Forward with Kick-Off Meeting in Helsinki
The GEOS – Gender Equal Opportunities in Sports project has taken an important step forward with its first in-person meeting in Helsinki, marking the official start of the project’s operational phase.
Hosted by the Finnish coordinator Finlands Svenska Idrott, the meeting brought together all project partners for two days of intensive work, discussion and collaboration. Beyond planning activities, the meeting was a valuable opportunity to strengthen the partnership and build a shared vision on how to promote gender equality in sport across Europe.
Turning ideas into action
Following the initial online launch, the Helsinki meeting focused on transforming the project’s vision into concrete actions. Partners worked together to define how GEOS will support sports organisations in becoming more inclusive, equitable and aware of gender-related challenges.
At the heart of the project is the development of Equality Action Plans, practical strategies that organisations can implement to create real and lasting change.
During the sessions, partners explored the structure of the project, its different phases and the main activities that will be carried out over the next two years. Particular attention was given to the upcoming training programme, which will engage sports professionals, coaches, managers and stakeholders in a process of learning, reflection and action.
Building a shared approach
The meeting also addressed key organisational aspects, including coordination tools, quality and evaluation methods, and communication strategies to ensure that the project reaches a wide audience.
A first version of the training programme was presented and discussed, laying the groundwork for the next development steps. At the same time, partners exchanged ideas, experiences and perspectives, reinforcing the collaborative spirit that will guide the project.
Moments of discussion and networking played a crucial role in aligning expectations and strengthening cooperation among organisations coming from different European contexts.
With the kick-off meeting successfully completed, GEOS now moves into its implementation phase. In the coming months, partners will focus on developing the training programme, creating a shared digital platform, and launching the first pilot activities at national level.
About the project
GEOS – Gender Equal Opportunities in Sports is a European project funded by the Erasmus+ Sport programme. It aims to promote gender equality within sports organisations by supporting professionals, managers and stakeholders in building more inclusive and equitable environments.
Through training, practical tools and shared learning, the project seeks to ensure that gender equality becomes an integral part of how sport organisations operate.
GEOS project is implemented by a European consortium of organisations with complementary expertise:
- Finlands Svenska Idrott (Finland) – Coordinator
- University of Malta (Malta) – Partner
- Associação de Futebol de Bragança (Portugal) – Partner
- Centro Universitario Sportivo – CUS Padova (Italy) – Partner
Funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or the European Education and Culture Executive Agency (EACEA). Neither the European Union nor EACEA can be held responsible for them.
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GEOS