Empowering Women Through Sports: Visa’s "Behind Every Number, There’s A Story" Campaign
As the world gears up for the FIFA Women’s World Cup Australia & New Zealand 2023
, Visa is launching an inspiring campaign titled “Behind Every Number, There’s A Story.” This initiative aims to empower women in the region by encouraging them to harness the transformative power of sports to navigate life’s challenges. By spotlighting the journeys of Team Visa athletes, the campaign seeks to illustrate how numbers—whether they represent game statistics or personal milestones—carry profound stories of resilience, determination, and triumph.
Celebrating the Journey of Team Visa Athletes
At the heart of this campaign are the stories of Team Visa athletes, who share their experiences both on and off the pitch as they prepare for the prestigious tournament. Each athlete’s journey is marked by significant milestones, from grassroots community involvement to proudly representing their nations on the world stage. These stories are not just about athletic prowess; they reflect the broader narrative of overcoming adversity and achieving personal aspirations. By highlighting these journeys, Visa aims to inspire women everywhere to pursue their dreams, regardless of the obstacles they may face.
The Confidence Gap Among Aspiring Women Entrepreneurs
Research commissioned by Visa reveals a striking statistic: 40% of aspiring women entrepreneurs struggle with a lack of confidence when it comes to starting their own businesses. This lack of self-assurance is often compounded by the challenges of juggling multiple responsibilities and facing cultural biases that can undermine their self-esteem. However, the same research uncovers a silver lining—74% of women entrepreneurs acknowledge that engaging in physical activities positively impacts their business ventures. Participation in sports not only boosts confidence but also helps develop essential skills that contribute to becoming effective business leaders. Furthermore, 43% of respondents indicated that sports participation enhances their competitiveness, a quality that is invaluable in the business world.
Numbers with Meaning: Insights from Visa
Danielle Jin, Head of Marketing at Visa Asia Pacific, emphasizes the company’s commitment to celebrating individual stories behind the numbers. “At Visa, we are a data-driven company that analyses numbers for meaningful insights. Beyond the 260 billion transactions, we seek to celebrate the individual stories of the people we serve,” she explains. By showcasing the accomplishments of Team Visa athletes—reflected in their game statistics and jersey numbers—Visa aims to inspire women to transform their achievements into successful business ventures. The campaign serves as a reminder that behind every statistic lies a unique story of perseverance and success.
A Commitment to Women’s Economic Advancement
Visa’s dedication to women’s empowerment extends beyond the realm of sports. As a purpose-driven organization, Visa strives to eliminate barriers and connect more individuals to the global economy. The company’s longstanding focus on supporting women’s economic advancement exemplifies how it brings its mission to life. As the first FIFA Women’s Football Partner, Visa is committed to fostering greater equality by addressing the challenges women face in various sectors, including sports and business. This commitment is crucial in creating an environment where women and girls can thrive equally.
Grants for Women Small Business Owners
In a groundbreaking initiative during the FIFA Women’s World Cup Australia & New Zealand 2023, Visa will award 64 grants to women small business owners. The unique aspect of this program is that one grantee will be selected after each match, specifically from the same market as the Player of the Match. This means that whether the standout player hails from a first-time entrant like Panama or a seasoned champion like the U.S. team, a woman small business owner from that player’s home country will receive a grant to support her entrepreneurial goals. The funding amounts will vary, ranging from $5,000 for the initial 48 matches to $50,000 for the final, with the winning small businesses announced live during the athlete trophy presentation.
Conclusion
Visa’s "Behind Every Number, There’s A Story" campaign is more than just a marketing initiative; it is a powerful movement aimed at empowering women through sports and entrepreneurship. By sharing the inspiring stories of Team Visa athletes and providing financial support to women entrepreneurs, Visa is paving the way for a more equitable future where women can thrive both on and off the field. Through this campaign, Visa is not only celebrating the achievements of women in sports but also encouraging them to leverage their experiences to overcome challenges and achieve their dreams.