On Wednesday, February 26, the Kent FA launched its Diversity Inclusion Action Plan (DIAP) for the Kent football community.

The event aimed to promote the new DIAP and ensure that football continues to represent the diverse communities it serves. The plan outlines key actions to encourage diversity and inclusion at every level of the game while creating an inclusive environment for all players, coaches, referees, volunteers, and everyone involved in football.

The event was hosted by professional sports presenter and broadcaster Kweku Afari, who welcomed 30 attendees with an opening speech.

As the event continued, Kweku introduced Kent FA CEO Darryl Haden, who discussed the importance of embedding diversity and inclusion throughout Kent’s football community. Following him, Anwar Uddin, the Diversity & Inclusion Manager at the FA and a respected figure in this field, provided an update on the new FA Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) Strategy. They were followed by David Rainford (EAG Chair & Head of Education & Academy Player Care), Jahmal Howlett-Mundle (Sevenoaks Town FC Captain and proud member of the LGBTQ+ community), and Kiki Christofi (FA Women & Girls/EDI Developer). Each shared their experiences, insights, and the challenges and opportunities they have encountered on their football journeys regarding diversity and inclusion.

To find out more about Kent Football's Diversity Inclusion Action Plan, read our strategy.

Event organizer Harry Mark, Kent FA Football Development Officer for Inclusion, commented on the success of the event, stating: “What an incredible evening to launch our DIAP, an action plan that is crucial for ensuring that football is a game for all. We are committed to providing opportunities for people from all backgrounds to get involved in football, and this plan is key to making football in Kent more inclusive.”

For more information about how we can enhance diversity and inclusive opportunities in Kent, please contact Harry Mark, Football Development Officer for Inclusion, at Harry.Mark@KentFA.com. He will be able to provide you with further information, or you can visit our website to learn more about our work across Kent, Equality & Diversity - Kent FA.