Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Abdul Rashid Thomas
Published on 2024-03-19 20:12:36
PUMA CEO Arne Freundt and Alexandra Popp, the captain of the Germany national football team, recently discussed leadership and the challenges facing women in football in a video interview as part of the sports company’s digital annual report. Alexandra, a three-time winner of Germany’s footballer of the year award, is a prominent ambassador for women’s football, known for her skill and charismatic leadership on the field.
Starting her career playing in a mixed team, Alexandra recounted the challenges faced by girls in football, where they were often belittled and treated unfairly by opponents. She described instances where girls were mocked and underestimated, and how parents on the sidelines would cheer on foul play against them. Despite the progress made in women’s football, Alexandra acknowledged that there is still work to be done to create a level playing field for female players.
Arne expressed admiration for Alexandra’s resilience and determination in the face of adversity, highlighting the importance of supporting trailblazers like her to challenge stereotypes and inspire change. He acknowledged that societal attitudes towards gender in sports are evolving, but there is still a long way to go to achieve equality.
Reflecting on her challenging youth experiences, Alexandra believes that overcoming those obstacles helped shape her resilience and mentality as a player. She emphasized the importance of perseverance and character building in facing adversity and believes that her early struggles contributed to her success on the pitch.
In terms of leadership, Alexandra admitted that she had to adapt her communication style when she was appointed captain of the team. She learned the importance of effective communication and understanding the needs of her teammates to lead them successfully. Arne shared his own leadership journey, noting the satisfaction of developing and guiding individuals to reach their full potential.
When asked for advice on aspiring CEOs, Arne emphasized the importance of pursuing one’s passion and finding intrinsic motivation to drive success. He highlighted the value of enjoyment and energy in one’s work, emphasizing that passion is the key to breaking down barriers and achieving success.
Alexandra will lead Germany at the upcoming Olympic Football Tournament in Paris, showcasing her leadership skills on an international stage. The full interview with Arne and Alexandra can be viewed on PUMA’s digital platform.
PUMA, a leading sports brand, has been at the forefront of creating innovative products for athletes and enthusiasts for over 75 years. The company offers a wide range of performance and lifestyle products in various categories, collaborating with designers and brands to merge sport influences with street culture and fashion. With a global presence in over 120 countries, PUMA continues to push the boundaries of sport and culture, inspiring individuals to strive for excellence in all endeavors.
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