Candia Ewing Selected for Prestigious FIFA Unite Exchange Program
The Turks and Caicos Islands Football Association (TCIFA) is proud to announce Candia Ewing’s participation in the 2024 FIFA Unite Exchange Program, in Zurich, Switzerland and Paris, France. The program officially launched in 2023, available to a select number of member associations at any given time. This year, Candia stands out as the only female representative among a distinguished group of participants from Ghana, Uganda, Czech Republic, and Tajikistan. Each participant was meticulously selected by its Regional Development Team for this exceptional opportunity.
Candia's presence at such an esteemed international platform underscores the advancements occurring in football administration, and serves as a beacon of hope for small associations, such as that of the Turks and Caicos Islands. The FIFA Unite Exchange Program aims to foster global collaboration and knowledge sharing within the football community, promoting the growth and development of the sport. Participants took part in a series of workshops, discussions, and activities aimed at enhancing their understanding of FIFA's objectives and the support provided to member associations. Their stay at the Home of FIFA provided valuable networking opportunities. Additionally, participants presented individual projects to senior members of FIFA, each aiming to launch initiatives within their respective member associations.
Candia, in collaboration with her FIFA Peer Ruediger Muller (Head of Digital Content Products), shared her insights regarding the challenges faced within the TCIFA. The journey began with Ruediger's visit to the Turks and Caicos Islands Football Association, where he engaged in preliminary discussions and gained valuable perspectives. She proposed strategies aimed at enhancing the visibility and engagement of football in her home country. Her project focused on leveraging low-cost and “no-cost” channels using a six step road-map to enhance the marketing and communications capabilities, amplifying the reach of football initiatives and aiming to inspire a new generation of participants and supporters.
Candia’s unique perspective and dedication were well-received by her peers, leading to meaningful exchanges that promise to foster long-term collaborations and support for the TCIFA. Her experience was markedly different when compared to relatively larger associations that focused on topics such as app development, enhancing football television services, and launching official branded merchandise and store installations. It is essential to recognise that smaller associations are still diligently working on establishing their foundational elements. She took great pride in discussing this matter!
TCIFA President Sonia Fulford commented, “Candia’s selection is a significant milestone, not only for her personal career, but for the TCIFA as a whole. This initiative is vital, as it plays a significant role in ensuring that football continues to thrive and foster community unity across the nation. The enthusiasm surrounding Candia's involvement reflects a broader vision of growth and innovation within the TCIFA. I would also like to add that her journey is not only inspirational but also a catalyst for aspiring female leaders in the region, signalling to young women that there are no limits to what they can achieve in sports administration.”
"I am honored to have represented the Turks and Caicos Islands in the FIFA Unite Exchange Program," said Candia. "This opportunity has allowed me to learn from others in the global football community and to bring back valuable insights that can help us grow the sport in our region. I have gained a deeper understanding." she continued. "The discussions and workshops were incredibly enriching, and I'm eager to apply what I've learned to make a tangible difference. I believe that with the strategies we've developed, we can create more opportunities and nurture a passion for football that extends beyond the field. I'm grateful for this unique experience and excited to collaborate with my colleagues at the TCIFA to turn these insights into action, and also build on the valuable relationships created at the Home of FIFA."
The TCIFA is excited about the potential impact of Candia's participation in the FIFA Unite Exchange Program, and looks forward to her contributions upon her return.
