Chloe Jordan at the SafeSport Conference 2026 in Cape Town
The Safe Sport Conference 2026 in Cape Town, South Africa, brought together an inspiring community of professionals, advocates, researchers, policymakers, and sport leaders from around the world, all united by a shared commitment to creating safer and more inclusive sporting environments.
Across three days, the conference provided an excellent opportunity to exchange ideas, share experiences, and learn from experts leading the way in safeguarding, athlete welfare, and human rights in sport. The quality of the discussions and the willingness of participants to collaborate made for a truly memorable experience.
I was especially grateful to be invited as a guest speaker, where I had the opportunity to share my own experiences and speak on a topic I am passionate about. My presentation focused on the importance of meaningful youth participation and ensuring that young people have a genuine voice in shaping the future of sport. Young people should not simply be consulted, they should be recognised as active partners in decision-making and empowered to contribute to the development of policies, programmes, and sporting environments; therefore supporting a safer environment.
During the session, I highlighted the work of ENGSO Youth through the EUYOUSPORT and SGS (Sustainable Goals through Sport) projects. These projects demonstrate how young people can be empowered through education, leadership opportunities, and active participation within sport organisations. Whether strengthening youth engagement in sport governance or encouraging young people to become leaders in sustainability, both projects show the value of investing in youth as changemakers within the sporting sector.
Another key aspect of my presentation explored how major events, such as the Youth Olympic Games, can be used as powerful platforms to engage, inspire, and empower the next generation. Beyond competition, these events create opportunities for education, leadership development, intercultural exchange, and meaningful youth involvement, leaving a lasting legacy long after the closing ceremony.
I also emphasised the importance of Human Rights Education within sport. Promoting awareness of human rights helps create sporting environments that are safe, inclusive, respectful, and free from discrimination. Embedding these principles across all levels of sport is essential to ensuring positive experiences for every participant.
Throughout the conference, I had the opportunity to connect with passionate professionals whose expertise and commitment to safe sport sparked meaningful conversations and valuable learning. The exchange of knowledge and experiences reinforced the importance of international collaboration in continuing to strengthen safeguarding practices across the sporting community.
A huge thank you goes to everyone involved in planning and delivering such a well-organised event, as well as the dedicated volunteers whose enthusiasm and hard work helped create such a welcoming atmosphere.
I leave Cape Town with broadened knowledge, new friendships and lasting memories that will continue to inspire my work. The conference was a powerful reminder that by working together, and by ensuring young people are genuine partners in the process, we can continue building a safer, more inclusive future for sport.
