This blog is written by Sofia Gibbins, explaining her experience attending the FA Leadership Academy 24 Residential (FALA24), 

My first moments of FALA24 started by meeting the yellow group who turned out to be my group, the best group. Yes, the best group. I’ll stand by that until the end of time. We took turns introducing ourselves, quickly gelling, the six of us with our mentors; a collection of enthusiastic, talkative, passionate young leaders, motivated to bring about positive change in the footballing world.


Then, the FALA24 residential actually kicked off with the Opening Ceremony, presented by the FANYC vice-chair, who introduced this year's theme of empowerment.

The four day residential was exhausting however I am so grateful for all the information I absorbed. I’m eager to put my learnings into practice, for example the ‘Four Burners Model’ which is a great analysis tool for assessing who or where I need to invest more or less of my time between friends/family, work/study, my community and myself. Slowly but surely, I am using online platforms to further build my professional presence, engage with others and not shy away from providing updates about my own journey whilst also trying to be a bigger and better ally, understanding people's struggles that I do not necessarily suffer from and use my voice to support those individuals.

Personally, the most pivotal moment of my whole residential experience came in Workshop 1 ‘Being my best self’ when we were asked a simple yet thought provoking question of “why?”, “why do you do what you do?”. Who knew that one word would have such a striking impact on me. I can be quick to tell people what my experience and involvement in football is, saying it’s “because I like being involved” but sitting in that room surrounded by all the other inspiring FALA participants made me mentally take a step back and dig deeper into my purpose.

Leaving the residential was tough but as I hugged my new friends goodbye, I reassured myself “it’s not goodbye but see you later” and with that, FALA24 I’ll see you at graduation. Roll on July 2025!


So far, FALA has empowered me to not let my age define my leadership abilities and overall capabilities. I am resilient, hard-working and confident in myself. I am good enough.

My key FALA24 quotes:
“Win or learn.” - Sofia Gibbins
“You can’t pour from an empty cup.” - Lauren O’Sullivan
“Feedback is the oxygen to our success.” - Selena Creighton
“Celebrate the small wins. Any win is worth celebrating.” - Steph Powell

 Congratulations to the FA National Youth Council for delivering such an incredible opportunity for young leaders to meet like-minded individuals as well as learn and grow themselves. Thank you for a memorable four days and here's to the next twelve months.