Fiji Rugby Union’s Director of Rugby, Lailanie Burnes, is currently in the UK to participate in the Women in Rugby Leadership Programme, organized by Capgemini. The event, taking place in London, gathers 25 female leaders from around the globe to increase the representation and influence of women in rugby and propel the development of the women’s and girls’ game internationally.
Burnes, a former Fijiana captain now serving on the Fiji Rugby Union board, is attending the summit as part of a two-year-long initiative. Her participation underscores Fiji’s commitment to fostering leadership among women in rugby and enhancing the sport’s profile on the international stage. Beyond the summit, Burnes plans to meet with various rugby unions across Europe and the UK, aiming to strengthen Fiji’s international connections and develop new opportunities for women in rugby.
Previously, Burnes also engaged in the Oceania Rugby Commentary and Mobile Journalism Program, which expands her expertise in sports commentary and digital journalism. She was selected to participate in media coverage for the Women’s Rugby World Cup, further solidifying her influence in the rugby community.
Burnes emphasizes the importance of these programs in encouraging more women to join the sports industry, citing her experiences as both educational and inspiring. She is eager to apply her newfound skills to benefit Fiji’s local rugby community by developing initiatives that enhance digital content production, storytelling, and commercial partnerships.
The involvement of Burnes and other women like her in leadership roles reflects a significant shift towards inclusivity and empowerment within the rugby world. It complements recent initiatives within Fiji Rugby, where the inclusion of women in board positions and leadership roles is becoming increasingly recognized and valued.
Overall, Burnes’ journey illustrates the growing opportunities for women in sports leadership and highlights the positive changes taking place within rugby, both in Fiji and globally. These initiatives pave the way for a brighter, more inclusive future for female athletes and leaders in the sport.