Breaking Boundaries: Mary Barratt, Pioneering Female Leadership in British Skydiving
Last year in a historic moment for British Skydiving, Mary Barratt made waves as the first-ever female Chair of the organisation. Breaking barriers and shattering glass ceilings, Mary’s appointment marks a significant milestone in the realm of sports leadership. As we approach International Women’s Day, it’s the perfect time to celebrate her remarkable achievements thus far and reflect on the importance of female representation in sport.
Since its inception in 1961, British Skydiving has been predominantly led by men. Mary’s ascension to the role of Chair signifies a seismic shift in the organisation’s leadership landscape, paving the way for more women to take on influential positions within the sport. Her appointment is not just a testament to her own capabilities but also a beacon of hope for aspiring female leaders across the skydiving community.
Mary’s journey to the helm of British Skydiving has been nothing short of inspiring. With a wealth of experience in the sport and a deep-seated passion for its advancement, she has dedicated herself wholeheartedly to the skydiving community. Her leadership style is characterised by
inclusivity, transparency, and a genuine commitment to empowering others.
Over the past 12 months, Mary has spearheaded initiatives aimed at addressing the gender imbalance within British Skydiving. Despite the sport’s universal appeal, only 17% of its members are women—a stark reminder of the obstacles that still exist for female participation in
traditionally male-dominated domains. Mary’s proactive approach to tackling this issue has seen the implementation of the inaugural IDE committee, challenging current paradigms, and advocacy campaigns designed to attract and retain female skydivers.
Under Mary’s guidance, British Skydiving has witnessed a renewed focus on diversity and inclusion. By championing the voices of women within the organisation, she is fostering a culture of empowerment and acceptance—a culture where every skydiver, regardless of gender, feels valued and respected. Her unwavering dedication to promoting gender equality serves as a beacon of hope for future generations of female athletes, inspiring them to pursue their passions without reservation.
As we celebrate International Women’s Day, let us pay tribute to Mary Barratt and her trailblazing leadership. Her appointment as the first female Chair of British Skydiving is not just a milestone; it’s a testament to the power of perseverance, determination, and unwavering belief in oneself.
Through her tireless advocacy and relentless pursuit of equality, Mary is shaping the future of skydiving—one leap at a time.
In honouring Mary’s achievements, let us also recommit ourselves to the cause of gender equality in sport. Together, we can break down barriers, challenge stereotypes, and create a more inclusive and equitable skydiving community for all. Here’s to Mary Barratt, a true pioneer and a shining example of female leadership in British Skydiving. Happy International Women’s Day!
Rob Gibson – CEO British Skydiving
