Amidst a global reckoning on the realities of systemic racism, experts from the highest ranks of the international sport system are strategizing a better way forward. Sport for Life is thrilled to announce that keynote speaker Brian Lewis, the current president of the Trinidad and Tobago Olympic Committee (TTOC) and Caribbean Association of National Olympic Committee (CANOC), will be sharing insights into his work as chair of the Sport Integrity Global Alliance (SIGA) standing committee that is committed to combat discrimination in sport.
His talk will be part of the Pathway for Everyone stream of the 2021 Virtual Sport for Life Canadian Summit.
“The work of the task force and the recommendations we’ve made are the starting point. I believe that a collaborative approach is essential if we ever hope to create a sport system free of discrimination. The reality of discrimination, whether it’s race or gender-based, is undeniable. It’s more important now than ever to work together on this front to press for large-scale cultural change and reform,” said Lewis.
"Race and gender relations in sport are a microcosm of society. It is a thorny issue with deep-seated complexities. At the Summit I’ll be sharing some of the simple ways we can begin to make progress, and it will take persistence and perseverance.”
Lewis has a variety of roles within the sport world, and a total of 32 years’ experience in sport leadership. He holds a Master’s degree in Sports Organization Management from the University of Claude Bernard. Over the course of his career, Lewis has established a reputation as a creative and insightful thought leader.
As the Summit becomes increasingly global in scope, Sport for Life’s CEO Richard Way is thrilled that Lewis will give delegates an opportunity to hear insights and recommendations to combat discrimination in sport.
“Simply put: Black lives matter. I look forward to hearing President Lewis address social injustice and speak about how to ensure opportunities are welcoming, accessible, and equitable. Over the last decade I’ve had the honour of working with Brian and I’ve seen his leadership nationally and internationally. A wealth of information will be shared on how organizations like ourselves and others can benefit from the work the Sport Integrity Global Alliance is doing to create the systemic change that we all desire,” said Way.
“He is a dynamic speaker, and will bring a powerful and transformative message.”
The Summit will be held virtually from Jan. 26 to 29 and Feb. 2 to 4, 2021. This year’s theme is Pathway to Policy.