To celebrate International Women’s Day, World Triathlon is proud to recognise some of the incredible women who shape and strengthen our sport around the world.

Across this special series, we highlight women who embody the spirit of this year’s theme: Give to Gain. Through their leadership, mentorship and commitment to the global triathlon community, these women demonstrate that when we give our time, knowledge and support, we create opportunities for others to grow and thrive.

Because when we give, we gain. Together, we can help forge gender equality through abundant giving.

In this feature, we speak with Debbie Alexander, World Triathlon Executive Board Member and International Paralympic Committee Governing Board member, whose leadership and dedication to triathlon over more than two decades has helped shape the sport in Africa and across the global triathlon community. With a background in medical and health sciences and education, Debbie has long been driven by a desire to serve others and create meaningful opportunities through sport.

What inspired you to pursue a career in sports event delivery, and what continues to fuel your passion today?
From an early age my passion was to lead in the service of others and to give a voice to the voiceless. A career in the medical and health sciences, and education, provided the perfect platform to do just that and to hone my leadership skills.

It was never my intention to pursue a “career” in sport. Fortuitously, through my involvement in triathlon, sport found me. I soon realised that I was exactly where I was meant to be.

More than 20 years ago I agreed to help resurrect triathlon in my country. During this time my passion for people, excellence and making a difference was further fuelled by the diverse and inclusive nature of World Triathlon. I especially valued the supportive, pioneering and sports-family culture that surrounded the sport.

What challenges have you faced as a woman working in elite sport environments, and how have you navigated them?
The early grassroots development years were tough and balancing a professional career alongside a demanding volunteer role presented a steep learning curve.

As a female leader in sport in my country, I encountered resistance, envy and at times bullying, including verbal and emotional abuse from both men and women.

I chose not to allow these experiences to deter me. Instead, I remained focused on the task at hand and on staying true to my values, dignity, respect, humility, courage and gratitude.

Those values have guided me throughout my journey and continue to shape how I approach leadership today.

In what ways can major sporting events create opportunities for women and girls beyond race day?
For me, the impact of sport extends far beyond the race itself.

Beyond race day there is always another day, another choice, another race, another venue. There are endless opportunities for learning, growth, connection, camaraderie and personal evolution.

Major sporting events create spaces where people can come together, challenge themselves and discover new possibilities, and this can be particularly powerful for women and girls.

What advice would you give to young women aspiring to work behind the scenes in global sport?
Seize every moment. Keep an open mind, do your best, be patient, continue learning and challenge yourself along the way. Above all, always be your authentic self.

And most importantly, love what you do.

This International Women’s Day, World Triathlon celebrates the women who continue to shape our sport through leadership, mentorship and action. Because when one woman gives, the entire community gains.

Across this series, led by World Triathlon and the World Triathlon Women’s Committee, we celebrate the women whose contributions continue to shape a more inclusive, supportive and equitable future for triathlon worldwide.