Volleyball Foundation
FIVB Volleyball Foundation Board member and recently elected FIVB Board member HRH Princess Ayah shares her perspective on the importance of volleyball
Volleyball is a sport which has inclusivity at its heart. It has consistently demonstrated it has the power to bring together people from a diverse range of backgrounds, and can play a transformative role in delivering positive social impact. The sport’s ability to reach communities around the world has been enhanced by the launch of the FIVB Volleyball Foundation earlier this year.
Earlier this month, the opportunities created for women globally through volleyball was the focus of the insightful ‘Women in Sports: Creating Pathways’ seminar in Doha – an event jointly hosted by the FIVB, Qatar Foundation, FIVB Volleyball Foundation and Qatar Volleyball Association.
A panellist at this seminar was HRH Princess Ayah bint Faisal. With significant experience as President of the Jordan Volleyball Federation and having recently been elected as an FIVB Board of Administration member and FIVB Volleyball Foundation Board member, Princess Ayah is uniquely placed to discuss volleyball’s ability to serve as an empowerment tool for young women.
Following the seminar, the FIVB Volleyball Foundation sat down with Princess Ayah to hear more of her insights.
“Volleyball is a great way to empower people because it goes beyond differences in language, culture and background,” Princess Ayah said.
“It teaches important skills like discipline, teamwork and confidence. In places where girls have fewer chances to play sport, volleyball can help break stereotypes, build independence and bring people together.
“It creates a safe and supportive space where girls can see their potential, challenge expectations and dream of a better future.”
She is encouraged by the increasing number of women receiving opportunities in leadership roles and believes this will further progress gender equality around the world.
“One of the biggest changes I’ve seen is the growing recognition of women’s leadership and success in sports, both in play and behind the scenes. More women are taking roles in leadership, coaching and media, which has made a big difference,” HRH Princess Ayah said.
“This change isn’t just about being seen; it’s about making women’s voices a normal part of decision-making. It’s important because it encourages young girls to aim higher and shows that their efforts matter. While there’s still work to do, this progress shows a shift towards fairness and inclusion in sport.”
HRH Princess Ayah now serves as an FIVB Volleyball Foundation Ambassador to help amplify its goal to serve the world through volleyball.
She hopes to draw on her personal experience to leave a legacy for future generations of women in the Middle East and beyond.
“My goal is to inspire future generations of women with courage, empowerment and possibility,” she said.
“As a mother, I show that ambition and balance can coexist. As a leader, I advocate for gender equality and inclusivity in sports, proving that leadership and motherhood go hand in hand. I want women, especially in the Middle East, to see their dreams as achievable and gender as a strength, not a barrier.”
Through her role as an FIVB Volleyball Foundation Ambassador, HRH Princess Ayah also hopes to promote values inherent to volleyball and advance the sport’s impact on the lives of young women.
“As an FIVB Volleyball Foundation Ambassador, I aim to unite communities and drive positive change through volleyball, focusing on young women and underserved groups,” she said.
“My mission is to promote values like teamwork, resilience and equality while opening doors for aspiring athletes with limited access to sport. I strive to make volleyball a powerful tool for personal growth, education and lasting social impact.”
The FIVB Volleyball Foundation and its valued partners are committed to promoting gender equality and providing women with more opportunities on and off the court. Princess Ayah’s insights highlight the power of sport in empowering and uplifting communities, and long may this continue!
