World Women’s Snowsport Summit 2025 – A Historic Premiere in Kaprun

From April 20 to 26, 2025, the World Women’s Snowsport Summit took place for the first time in Kaprun, Austria – the first international gathering of leading women in the snowsports industry. The event was organized by the World Women Snowsport Organization (WWSO), founded in 2024.

40 participants and 15 coaches from 12 nations took part in the World Women’s Snowsport Summit.

40 participants and 15 coaches from 12 nations joined the inaugural Summit. Among them were Nelli Heiskanen, President of the Finnish Ski Instructor Association, and Katalin Egri, President of the Hungarian Ski Instructor Association. Also present was Johanna Sperrer, trainer at the Snowsports Academy, who thoroughly enjoyed the inspiring atmosphere and the in-depth professional exchange.

Skiing together and sharing knowledge were at the heart of the event.

The Summit focused on skiing, international knowledge exchange, and reflecting on the role of women in snowsports. In the mornings, participants could choose from various clinics – exploring different ski instruction models, experimenting with new skiing techniques, and discussing effective coaching strategies, all aimed at mutual learning and empowerment.

In the afternoons, participants presented research findings and hosted seminars on topics such as “What is Learning?”, “Snowsport Fear & Confidence”, “The Athlete Mindset”, and “Develop Your Coaching Philosophy”.Many women in leadership roles also introduced their initiatives and programs to support women in snowsports – including “Women of Winter” (USA) and “She Leads” (UK), both doing outstanding work in their fields.

A highlight of the week was Wednesday’s panel discussion on “The Future for Women in Snowsports”, which was also streamed online. The discussion addressed key challenges faced by women in the industry and explored tangible solutions.The team from CARV also joined the event to increase their female data collection, aiming to improve the gender sensitivity of their product.

The week was filled with energy, expertise, and genuine inspiration. The participants not only highlighted existing barriers but also demonstrated the potential that emerges when women support and encourage one another. Through the networks formed and the mutual empowerment experienced, the Summit moved the industry a meaningful step closer to true equality.

Johanna Sperrer, trainer at the Snowsports Academy, was clearly inspired and energized by her experience at the Summit on the Kitzsteinhorn.

A heartfelt thank you to the WWSO team for founding this important organization and for hosting such an outstanding event. We’re already looking forward to the next one!

Text: Johanna Sperrer

More information: https://wwso.pro