Elite sport demands performance and resilience under a lens of intense scrutiny, but are we creating environments where people feel safe enough to be human? To be themselves, speak out, or make mistakes?

Drawing on lived experience, empirical research and cultural perspectives, this panel will explore the intersection of psychological safety, culture, belonging & mental health in elite sport. The conversation will challenge us to look beyond individual resilience and consider how sporting cultures can better protect both performance and wellbeing.

Exploring how culturally safe and informed approaches can strengthen wellbeing, enhance performance, and build stronger connections within sporting communities.

Alongside sharing practical programs, resources and services developed in this space.

Through practical insights and diverse lived experiences, we'll explore how culture, family and identity can shape the possibilities athletes see for themselves, and how career and education experiences can build purpose, confidence, self-efficacy and agency both during and beyond an athlete’s sporting career.

This session will explore career development as part of the whole athlete journey, how we can help athletes understand who they are beyond sport, explore the world of work and discover possibilities that align with their interests, strengths, values, culture and identity. 

The Culture of Hope in Sport session, presented by Cliff Thompson, will challenge us to think beyond wellbeing as a program or policy, and instead consider how hope can be intentionally built into the culture, language, leadership, relationships, and systems of sport.

Cliff speaks with warmth, humour, honesty, and conviction, calling leaders to see athletes as people first and to build environments where they are seen, supported, challenged, and believed in.