Around 50 members of the Women in Aquatics Network came together on 10 August for an informal gathering during the European Aquatics Championships Paris 2026.
Held at the competition swimming pool following the morning swimming heats, the event brought together women from different countries, generations and professional backgrounds, all connected through their involvement in aquatics.
The gathering was opened by Sarah Keane, European Aquatics Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Committee Chair and Bureau Liaison, who welcomed participants and thanked them for attending. She also shared an update on the work of the Women in Aquatics Network and its efforts to connect women working across different roles within the aquatic sports community.
“What we are trying to do is bring women together to get to know each other as leaders within European Aquatics, to support each other, learn from each other and encourage each other to take on more roles and opportunities within aquatics. Today is about making real connections — meeting new people, sharing our experiences and building a network of women who can support each other and help make European Aquatics stronger and more inclusive.”
Sarah then invited those present to introduce themselves to the group, creating an opportunity for participants to learn more about each other’s experiences and areas of work.
Among those attending were Andida Bouma, European Aquatics Treasurer, Silvia Costa, European Aquatics Social Responsibility Manager, Pernille Blume, European Aquatics Bureau Member, Leonie Beck, European Aquatics Athlete Ambassador, Julia Powischer, Secretary General of the Austrian Swimming Federation, alongside many other members and professionals from across the aquatics community.
The introductions were followed by an informal food and drinks reception, allowing participants to continue the conversation, exchange experiences and build new connections in a relaxed setting.
The gathering reflected the diversity of the Women in Aquatics Network, with approximately 50 women from a wide range of countries, professions and age groups taking part.
The Paris meeting follows the Network’s first leadership webinar, held in June, which brought together more than 30 women for discussions on leadership, governance and professional development.
The Women in Aquatics Network will continue to provide opportunities for members to connect, exchange experiences and support greater participation of women across the European aquatics community.
Women interested in joining future activities of the Women in Aquatics Network are invited to register through the official platform. The Network is open to women aged 18 and over who are members of a National Federation within European Aquatics, or who have been involved in aquatics at any point during the past 10 years, and who have an interest in leadership and professional development within sport.