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 meet Marieke von Dewitz-Krebs, a German Technical Official who has progressed through the World Triathlon mentoring programme while pursuing a career in law and public service. Her journey highlights the importance of mentorship, learning and the next generation of leaders supporting the growth of triathlon worldwide.

How did the World Triathlon Mentoring Programme support your development as a Technical Official?
The Mentoring Programme supported me greatly because I always had someone from a different National Federation to talk to who had much more expertise and experience.

Our occasional online meetings were very helpful, as they allowed me to share my experiences from the season and receive new input on how I could develop further and improve my work. My mentor always provided valuable advice on possible next steps and recommended events I could sign up for.

Having that guidance and support made a big difference in helping me grow and gain confidence in my role.

You are also studying law and interested in working with the police. How do these roles connect with being a Technical Official?
Law and being a Technical Official have clear similarities, as both roles involve ensuring that rules and regulations are followed.

At the same time, they both require strong communication skills and the ability to understand people and their situations. This is also where I see the connection to police work: speaking with people, representing an institution and standing for certain values.

As a Technical Official for World Triathlon, Europe Triathlon or my National Federation, we represent these values and aim to uphold them.

Why is it important to see more women involved in technical and leadership roles in sport?
Women bring many valuable qualities to the table. From my experience, we often have a strong sense of empathy and a natural motivation to care for others.

At the same time, women represent around 50% of the world’s population, so it only makes sense for us to be equally represented in sport.

Women belong in technical roles just as much as any other gender, and having a diverse mix of people ultimately helps us work together more effectively.

What advice would you give to other women who might be considering becoming a Technical Official?
My advice would be simple: go for it.

This role will give you valuable experience not only in sport but also in life. You will meet new people from all over the world and become part of an incredible global community.

Don’t be afraid to get started. People are always willing to help, and you are never left on your own.

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.