BIGGA Launches Pilot Programme to Empower Women in Turf

New Network for Greenkeeping Professionals

The British and International Golf Greenkeepers Association (BIGGA) has introduced a new network specifically designed for women employed across the golf and turf industries. Named the BIGGA Elevates Women's Network, its primary objective is to cultivate confidence, facilitate professional connections, and provide mutual support among its members throughout their careers.

The initiative begins with a five-session pilot programme, which will run online from September 2026 through to January 2027. This initial cohort will comprise up to 20 women, participating in a series of two-hour virtual meetings.

The first session commenced on Tuesday, 29 September 2026, with subsequent meetings scheduled for 20 October, 17 November, 8 December, and 12 January 2027, each taking place from 7pm to 9pm.

Flexible, Participant-Led Development

Rather than adhering to a rigid curriculum, the network's sessions are designed to adapt to the specific priorities and experiences shared by its participants. This approach fosters a confidential and supportive setting where members can openly discuss their professional experiences, reflect on challenges, and learn from their peers.

Miriam Mooney, an experienced facilitator and qualified life and business coach, will lead the programme. Mooney's role is to provide a structured framework for discussions while allowing conversations to evolve organically based on the group's needs.

Her background includes supporting individuals and teams in building confidence and navigating professional changes since 2014, complemented by over 23 years in corporate leadership roles.

Building on Previous Success

Lauren Frazer, BIGGA Commercial Director, highlighted the strong demand for such a network, noting that the inaugural BIGGA Elevates event at BTME 2026 demonstrated a significant desire among women in the industry to connect and share experiences. That initial event, which drew more than 50 attendees, was a collaborative effort with The R&A and Syngenta.

It brought together women from various roles and career stages to discuss critical topics such as visibility, career opportunities, personal confidence, and professional advancement within what has traditionally been a male-dominated sector. The new network aims to build on this momentum, creating an ongoing platform for support and development throughout the year.

Future Growth and In-Person Gathering

The pilot programme will conclude with an in-person BIGGA Elevates session at BTME 2027, scheduled for Wednesday, 27 January 2027. This informal event will be held from 4pm to 5pm in The R&A Clubhouse at the Harrogate Convention Centre, welcoming women from across the golf and turf industries.

Attendees will have the opportunity to network with fellow professionals and learn more about the Women's Network. The session will also feature a panel of accomplished women who will share insights from their career trajectories and offer perspectives on achieving success in the industry.

BIGGA, Europe's largest membership organisation for golf greenkeepers with over 6,000 members, hopes this pilot will establish a recognised and valuable community that will continue to expand, fostering lasting connections and meaningful opportunities for women in the sector.

Implications for Asian Turf Management

Given BIGGA's 'International' scope and the online delivery of the pilot programme, this initiative presents a model that could be replicated or expanded to benefit turf professionals globally, including those in Asia.

While the current pilot is likely focused on BIGGA's existing membership, the virtual format reduces geographical barriers to participation and knowledge exchange.

Asian golf course operators and greenkeeping associations may observe the success of this network as a precedent for developing similar professional development and support structures for women in their respective regions.

The growth of such online, international communities could eventually offer direct networking and learning opportunities for women in turf management across Asia, enhancing skill sets and career progression within the region's expanding golf industry.