Four women standing together on a football pitch, smiling and posing for a group photo outdoors.
From left to right: Jade Boho Sayo (former international footballer), Miss Katie Wright (British Council School teacher), Cristina Vega ‘Keka’ (former international football player) and Miss Bea (British Council School teacher). ©

Alberto García

The British Embassy in Spain, the British Council, and VisitBritain have teamed up to promote equality and diversity in sport through Gamechangers, an initiative that highlights how sport can drive social change. As part of the GREAT campaign, it showcases the transformative power of sport and education.

Jade Boho Sayo, former international footballer, reflects: “The world of sport opens a billion doors. Football has made me discover different cultures, face challenges and above all appreciate the importance of inclusion and equality.

Cristina Vega Leandro, ‘Keka,’ another Spanish veteran who played for British teams, agrees: “Sport is inclusion. On the pitch, the only language spoken is that of the ball.

Education is at the heart of this campaign. “In the Early Years classroom, sport has no gender! It teaches respect, resilience, inclusion, and teamwork,” says Miss Bea, an educator involved in the programme.

Kate Wright, another teacher on the project, has seen the impact firsthand: “It’s great to see more and more girls playing football, from Early Years to after-school clubs.

Through Gamechangers, the British Council reinforces that sport, like education, has no boundaries. By combining the two, we can open doors to new opportunities and build a more inclusive future.