Students score professional experience through FAW mentoring

University of South Wales (USW) football coaching students have been gaining invaluable experience and guidance through the Football Association of Wales’ (FAW) PAWB Mentoring Programme.

The programme, launched as part of the FAW’s equality, diversity and inclusion work, aims to support aspiring coaches and football professionals from under-represented groups to develop their skills, confidence, and networks in the game.

Julian Syiemlieh, from Shillong in the north-eastern region of India, relocated to Wales last year to begin his studies. He says the warm welcome he’s received has made the transition smoother.

“I’ve never felt like an outsider in Wales. People have always been very welcoming. The eagerness of others to learn about my culture matches my eagerness to learn about theirs,” he said.

Growing up in a region where football is deeply rooted in the community, Julian’s passion for the sport has been a lifelong constant. He joined the FAW’s first-ever cohort of PAWB mentees earlier this year.

He said: “It is a very impressive programme that has opened my eyes to the many different career paths in football, from coaching to performance analysis, media and beyond.”

Through regular online meetings, Julian has been working closely with his assigned mentor to develop his communication skills, something he identified as a key area for growth.

“English is my third language. The Welsh accent and speech patterns were new to me,” he explained. “If you’re a football coach, you need strong communication skills. My mentor has helped me work on my cadence, tone, and confidence. Over the past few months, I’ve become a much more assured speaker.”

Julian has already been able to apply what he’s learned through the programme in his role with a football academy in India, where his ideas and insights have been embraced by colleagues.

Reflecting on the value of the programme, Julian said: “Mentorship is something everyone needs. We all believe we can make it on our own, but with the right people guiding us, the journey becomes less arduous and more worthwhile.”

Ioan Paval, Course Leader for Football Coaching and Performance, said: “We’re incredibly proud of all our students taking part in the PAWB Mentoring Programme. They’ve shown real commitment to learning from their mentors and exploring the many career paths in football. The experiences and professional connections they’re making now will benefit them for years to come. They’re already bringing fresh ideas back into their studies and communities.”

Jason Webber, FAW’s Senior Equality, Diversity, Inclusion Manager, said: “We know that, historically, those from Black, Asian, and mixed heritage backgrounds have been underrepresented in the game. This programme is important to help people from those backgrounds to empower them, to give them confidence and tools to develop them, and signpost to opportunities in football, whether that be at FAW or clubs across Wales.

“Research shows that mixed experiences and backgrounds drive innovation and insight. If everyone comes from the same background, they will reach the same solutions. Diversity of thought and background is vital for us to be a modern, progressive association for the future.”