From 12–13 September 2025, 126 students from 75 National University Sport Federations (NUSFs) and 3 Continental University Sport Federations (CUSFs) officially began their journey as the new FISU Student Ambassadors.

The year-long programme began with an online training event, offering selected ambassadors in-depth insights into FISU’s mission, governance, and major international sporting events. Formerly known as the FISU Volunteer Leaders Academy, the initiative now empowers students to represent their countries and National University Sport Federations (NUSFs) while driving positive change in local and regional sports communities.

FISU President Leonz Eder opened the training with a call to “dream big,” a theme echoed throughout the event. Former Ambassador Joshua Miethke shared his path from representing Germany to working at FISU Headquarters, inspiring participants to envision their own journeys.

The training featured insights from key FISU figures. Alejandro Guerra, Paulo Sivieri, and Chloe Dragani shared their perspectives on the global impact of FISU World University Championships. Joshua Miethke, FISU Games Summer Assistant, spoke about his journey from being an Ambassador in Germany to working at FISU Headquarters. Adelia Faizulina, FISU Marketing and Branding Manager, highlighted the importance of FISU’s brand and identity, while Therese Courvoisier, Head of Media and Communications, explained how Ambassadors can amplify FISU’s message worldwide.

Finally, Matthias Remund, FISU Secretary General and CEO, offered advice on balancing professionalism with enjoyment.

Alumni and current Ambassadors shared powerful testimonies, showing how the programme helps them balance sport, studies, and leadership roles worldwide. Eight Team Leaders were also elected to guide this year’s cohort.

The weekend concluded with the announcement of all 126 Ambassadors, uniting them into a global network. Among the highlights were historic milestones: Guinea joined the programme for the first time, and Ivory Coast returned after eight years.

New Ambassadors captured the spirit of the initiative, emphasizing dual careers, cultural exchange, and promoting their countries on the international stage.

This year, EUSA is represented by two Ambassadors: Jan Sobczak and Franciska Coko, members of the EUSA Student Commission—who shared their perspectives on the programme.

Franciska Coko

As part of the two-day FISU Student Ambassadors training 2025/26, I had the chance to dive into the wide variety of FISU activities and values. Through interactive presentations we explored not only the global reach of the World University Games, Championships and University World Cups, but also what stands behind these events – from the role of volunteers and event management, to cooperation with international federations and the importance of promoting sport through media and education. The programme also highlighted key topics such as student well-being, gender equality, sustainability, anti-doping, and dual careers, showing how university sport goes far beyond competition.

For me, as a member of the EUSA Student Commission, these sessions were especially meaningful because they reflect EUSA’s mission of empowering students and connecting them through sport at the European level. Being part of this Commission gives me the chance to bring knowledge and perspectives from FISU directly into the European context, to exchange ideas and strengthen initiatives that support students. With the support of the Croatian Academic Sports Federation, I am motivated to apply what I learned, encourage student engagement, and contribute to the European university sport community through EUSA.

Jan Sobczak

What stood out for me was how professionally developed and structured FISU is compared to many national-level organizations. It operates on a truly global scale, offering best practices, resources, and a strong network that we can learn from and apply locally.

This programme also highlighted the strong connection between FISU, EUSA, and national structures like AZS, proving how powerful and united the academic sport community can be. Being part of this programme is a true honor and an incredible learning opportunity, one that inspires us to grow, lead, and promote university sport with pride.

We at EUSA are excited to see what this new season of FISU Student Ambassadors has to offer! 

For more information, please see https://www.fisu.net/programmes/student-ambassadors/