Nevena Ignjatovic makes history to become Serbia Ski Association’s first female president

On 26 December 2024, former Alpine skier Nevena Ignjatovic made history by becoming Serbia Ski Association’s first female president. She is now the 13^th woman in charge of a National Ski and Snowboard Association (NSA).

In her four-year term, Nevena will focus on developing a long-term strategy that focuses on the growth of winter sports in Serbia.

As someone that has lived through the different stages of being on the snow, she is determined now more than ever to provide the next generation of athletes with “resources, support and opportunities to reach their full potential.”

A decorated career that involved four Olympic cycles and 150 medals to her name, Nevena is well-versed in what is needed to compete at the top level.

Her unique perspective in this role will allow her to identify key areas that may need addressing, offering thoughtful insight into athlete requirements.

“I understand the importance of mental resilience, discipline, and teamwork, which are essential in leadership roles,” she says.

“I also know firsthand the challenges athletes face, so I’ll be able to advocate for their best interests with a deep understanding of the environment they work in.”

The significance of becoming Serbia’s first female president cannot be understated, with Nevena’s appointment yet another symbol of growth not only in sport, but with regards to women in leadership roles across all industries.

As well as the overwhelming feeling of pride when it comes to representing her country in this new capacity, the Kragujevac native is hopeful her presidency can inspire.

“It’s important to me that my position serves as an example to young women, showing them that they too can take on leadership roles in any field, no matter the challenges,” Ignjatovic adds.

While the new Serbian president channels her energy into youth development and increasing overall participation in winter sports in her homeland, FIS is determined to continue fostering an inclusive environment with the help of its members.

As part of the federation’s five-year strategic plan, it will continue to ensure that diversity, gender equality, and inclusion are considered in decision-making at all levels of the FIS organization.

You can read our full Q&A with Nevena below:

Nevena, congratulations on your election. What duties are involved as your role as president?

As president, my role involves development of a long-term strategy that will contribute to improving the positioning of the federation and athletes. I will work on creating a series of action plans aimed at strengthening the federation itself. Additionally, I will focus on ensuring that we have a clear vision for the future, where our goals align with the growth of the sport in Serbia. This includes collaborating with board members and other stakeholders to ensure effective decision-making and the successful implementation of key projects. My responsibility is also to advocate for the needs of athletes and ensure they have the necessary resources to succeed.

Can you tell us more about the election process?

The election process was thorough and transparent, with a focus on selecting a candidate who is not only passionate about the sport but also has the experience and leadership skills to guide the organization. I was nominated by a group of distinguished members and went through a series of discussions and votes to ensure that my vision for the future was in line with the needs of our community. It was an honor to be entrusted with this responsibility, and I look forward to fulfilling the expectations of everyone involved.

What does it mean to you to be able to represent your nation in this role?

Representing my nation in this role is an incredible honor. As a four-time Olympian and a winner of over 150 medals, including 40 golds, I have had the privilege of competing at the highest level of skiing. I have also finished in the top 30 at World Cup races 17 times. After years of competing internationally, it feels like a natural progression to continue contributing to the sport in Serbia from a leadership position. Of course, It’s not just about leading; it’s about inspiring the next generation of athletes and ensuring they have the support they need to succeed.

How do you think your time as an athlete will help you as president?

My time as an athlete has given me valuable insights into what athletes truly need—both in terms of support and infrastructure. I understand the importance of mental resilience, discipline, and teamwork, which are essential in leadership roles. I also know firsthand the challenges athletes face, so I’ll be able to advocate for their best interests with a deep understanding of the environment they work in.

What are you hoping to achieve during your time chairing the board?

I hope to create a more inclusive and sustainable environment for Serbian athletes, with a focus on youth development and increasing participation in winter sports. One of my goals is to elevate the profile of winter sports in our country and secure more resources for training and competition opportunities. I also want to foster greater collaboration with international organizations to bring more competitive opportunities to our athletes.

How does it feel to be Serbia’s first female president?

It is a proud moment for me to be the first female president in Serbia’s history. It signifies progress not only for the sport but for gender equality in leadership roles. It’s important to me that my position serves as an example to young women, showing them that they too can take on leadership roles in any field, no matter the challenges.

Are you hopeful that this will inspire more female presidents chairing NSAs in the coming years?

Absolutely. I believe this is just the beginning. I hope my role will inspire more women to step into leadership positions, not just in sports but across all industries. It’s crucial that we continue to break barriers and create opportunities for women to lead. My success will hopefully serve as a beacon for other women to follow suit and pursue their passions, no matter what challenges they may face.

Finally, is there anything else you’d like to add?

I’d like to take this opportunity to thank everyone who has supported me along the way, especially my teammates, coaches, friends and family. This role is a team effort, and it will take collaboration from all sides to succeed. I’m excited for what lies ahead, and I am deeply committed to ensuring that the next generation of athletes in Serbia has the resources, support, and opportunities to reach their full potential.