Sport student Issy takes the lead with national football leadership programme

Eastbourne student Issy Laureles has been recognised for her inspiring leadership and dedication to football, after completing the prestigious Rising Leaders programme with AoC Sport.

From October 2024 to May 2025, Issy, who studies Sport & Exercise Science at East Sussex College, joined 11 other young women from across the country on an eight-month journey to grow as leaders in sport and give back to their communities.

The Rising Leaders programme, run by AoC Sport, is all about helping young women make a difference through football. As part of the experience, Issy pushed herself outside her comfort zone, took part in national workshops, volunteered locally, and developed the confidence to take on leadership roles in sport.

Throughout the programme, Issy had the chance to build industry connections, explore career opportunities in sport, and gain practical skills that will support her long after college.

Issey told the College, "This programme was great honestly, it’s always nerve wracking to put yourself out there to meet others in a different environment, but it’s worth it. You never know what it’s like until you try. I would honestly push more girls to apply who want to be involved in football and want to push for more in, not only just their colleges, but communities."

Issey added, "By finishing RS it’s allowed me to open other doors and find other opportunities like the FA leadership academy (FALA), which I’ve now been accepted into. It's a year long project where you create a project idea and make it become something and do it within your community."

The programme finished with a two-day residential and a special graduation event - a chance to celebrate everything the group achieved together and the impact they’ve already had in their communities.

East Sussex College is incredibly proud of Issy and everything she’s accomplished through the Rising Leaders programme. We can’t wait to see what she does next!