Miami, FL – Concacaf’s commitment to supporting the ongoing growth and development of its Member Associations was underscored by the Confederation successfully delivering its Executive Mentorship Program (EMP) in Trinidad and Tobago and St. Vincent and the Grenadines. The Concacaf EMP team recently visited the Trinidad and Tobago Football Association and, separately, the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Football Federation to deliver a program that has fast become integral to supporting federations in enhancing all aspects of their administration and governance. The Concacaf EMP was launched by Concacaf President Victor Montagliani in 2019 as a key part of his One Concacaf vision to unite the region and provide support and opportunity for all 41 of the Confederation’s Member Associations.
The two-day EMP workshops in Trinidad and Tobago and, separately, St. Vincent and the Grenadines focused on governance, administration and leadership. The sessions provided insights into best practices on the development of administrative capacities across the region. The Program is flexible in order that it can be successfully applied to all federations across the region, and leaders and senior executives from both Trinidad & Tobago and St. Vincent & the Grenadines participated, engaging in discussions and activities designed to enhance their leadership skills and structures to support the growth of football in their respective territories.
The sessions focused on assisting the federations to enhance all “off field” aspects of their administration and governance, with a view to ensuring the sustainable growth of football in the region. They were led by Howard McIntosh, Concacaf Director of Member Services, alongside Horace Reid, Concacaf Director of Caribbean Member Associations Affairs, Anton Sealey, former President of the Bahamas Football Association, and David Sabir, General Secretary of the Bermuda Football Association.
“Good governance is the cornerstone of successful football organizations. It is crucial that the TTFA and SVGFF executive teams are equipped with the tools and knowledge necessary to lead effectively and responsibly in their mission to grow the sport. The Executive Mentorship Program is a key initiative that was launched by Concacaf’s President, Victor Montagliani, and has become an integral part of our commitment to supporting Concacaf Member Associations in their efforts to elevate football,” said McIntosh.
The Trinidad & Tobago workshop, held at the Hilton Hotel, introduced the new Trinidad and Tobago Football Association (TTFA) executive team, led by President Kieron Edwards. President Edwards expressed gratitude for Concacaf’s support, acknowledging the workshop as an essential initiative for advancing football governance in Trinidad & Tobago. “This workshop marks a significant step in our journey towards revitalizing football governance in Trinidad and Tobago. The insights and knowledge shared by the Concacaf team will undoubtedly guide us as we work towards achieving excellence in our administrative practices and fulfilling our vision for football in our nation,” said President Edwards.
Similarly, the workshop in St. Vincent & the Grenadines brought together the St. Vincent & the Grenadines Football Federation (SVGFF) to engage in strategic discussions focused on leadership and governance. The event took place on August 17th and 18th, 2024, at La Vue Hotel. The program focused on strengthening the organizational framework of SVGFF, enhancing leadership skills, and ensuring the federation’s strategic objectives aligned with global football standards.
SVGFF President Otashie Spring expressed his gratitude to Concacaf and the facilitators for their commitment to supporting the development of football in St. Vincent and the Grenadines. “The Executive Mentorship Program (EMP) workshop was a transformative experience for our executive council. The insights and guidance provided by our mentors have empowered us to lead with renewed focus and strategic vision. This initiative has not only strengthened our leadership team but has also set the stage for the continued growth and success of football in St. Vincent and the Grenadines,” said President Spring.
The Executive Mentorship Program is part of the confederation’s “One Concacaf Initiative”, designed to safeguard and promote football within its 41-Member Associations.