Unlocked is the Women’s Sport Trust’s flagship leadership and development programme for elite female athletes. It’s about you – helping you find and strengthen your unique voice, plan for your future, and use your influence to drive change in women’s sport and beyond. As part of Unlocked, you’ll join a powerful community of athletes, gain the confidence to amplify your impact, and learn how to navigate opportunities in media, commercial spaces, and leadership roles.
Unlocked 2025/26 - APPLICATIONS ARE OPEN
Women’s Sport Trust is now recruiting for the next Unlocked cohort which will bring together 35 athletes from across the sporting spectrum, at different stages of their careers and from diverse backgrounds. Unlocked is open to female athletes aged 18 and over, previously or currently competing at an elite level, with a connection to the UK, whether UK athletes based overseas or international athletes competing domestically.
For any enquiries or questions about Unlocked – please contact Eilidh Gibson, Athlete Programmes & Relationship Manager eilidhgibson@womenssporttrust.com
WHY YOU SHOULD APPLY FOR UNLOCKED
Community
Join a network of elite female athletes who understand the challenges and opportunities you face. It’s your space to connect, share experiences, and find support and inspiration - the ultimate girl squad for learning, growth, and motivation.
Hangouts
Hangouts are your space to connect with the WST team and your fellow athletes. They’re a chance to share stories, learn from sport industry experts in our ‘spotlight sessions’, and dive into breakout discussions on the issues that matter most – exchanging ideas, insights and support.
Learning
Gain insights from industry experts on key topics like handling challenging conversations, securing sponsorship, getting media exposure, growing your social channels, and much more — giving you the tools to take your career and influence to the next level.
Connections
Grow your network by connecting with key decision-makers across sport, media, and business. You'll tap into Women’s Sport Trust’s influential network and be paired with an 'activator' - a leader who will help you clarify your mission, open doors, and guide you in using your influence to create meaningful change in the industry.
Visibility
Unlocked will provide you with opportunities to raise your profile. From media appearances and speaking engagements to developing content and social media growth, you’ll gain the tools and be given platforms to share your story, showcase your impact, and amplify your influence in women's sport and beyond.
UNLOCKED ALUMNI
The Unlocked alumni are a dynamic community of over 100 elite female athletes, representing more than 32 sports. Together, they combine world-class talent, diverse experiences, and a shared drive to create positive change within and beyond their sport.
Through Unlocked, this community continues to inspire the next generation, challenge perceptions, and open doors for women in sport. The new cohort will have the opportunity to learn directly from the alumni, tapping into their knowledge, experiences, and networks to accelerate their own growth.
Women’s Sport Trust’s vision is a sporting landscape where female athletes have equal opportunities, strong voices, and the support to thrive at every stage of their career.
UNLOCKED LAUNCH CAMPAIGNS
Check out our Unlocked launch campaign videos, featuring Unlocked athletes sharing their experiences and the impact of the programme. Get inspired, see the community in action, and discover what it could mean for your journey as an elite female athlete.