The announcement was based on the conclusion of final deliberations by the Award Selection Panel, which consists of Executive Members of the ONOC Equity Commission (ECO).

Robyn was unanimously chosen from six exceptional nominations put forth by five National Olympic Committees and one Sport Federation from Oceania. The ACE Award honors outstanding leaders who have embodied outstanding examples of leadership, innovation, and impact in promoting gender equity through sport in Oceania.

ECO Co-Chairs Liz Dawson and  Helen Brownlee said in praise of this year's nominations, "Applications this year have been of exceptional standard. Every nominee is having an incredible impact both in their communities and in sport by promoting equality, diversity, and inclusion. The Executive of the ECO have decided to roll over the excellent nominations to be considered in subsequent years, something we will continue to review annually."

The Selection Panel also acknowledged two Runners-Up for 2024:

• Luisa Faitiaki Peters (Cook Islands National Olympic Committee)
• Lauren Jackson (FIBA Oceania)

Robyn Cockburn has over 35 years of experience as researcher, strategist, facilitator, and educator. She is currently the Lead Facilitator for Wāhine Toa Oceania, an innovative women's leadership program under the auspices of NZOC that assists retired elite female athletes from Pacific Islands.

Her long-standing dedication to fairness is also demonstrated by work with diverse groups such as mana whenua, minority ethnic groups, disability groups, and those with mental health issues. She has mentored over two centuries of women leaders in various sectors such as sport, arts, recreation, and education, as well as sat on various boards such as Sport New Zealand, and Skills Active Te Mahi Ako.

"Robyn's multifaceted leadership is profound in its impact," said Brownlee. "She applies strategic vision, compassion, and innovation to all her projects, ensuring that women's voices are not only heard, but are at the forefront."

Each year, the ACE Award is awarded during the ONOC General Assembly to those who have contributed to advancing gender equity in sport. The Award spotlights technical excellence, coaching, sport administration, as well as women's development initiatives throughout the region.

Co-Chair Brownlee added, “This is an important step in recognizing and lauding those actively promoting equity in sport. We believe through this recognition we can promote positive change and continue to progress gender equality throughout the sporting community in Oceania.”

ONOC President Dr Robin Mitchell congratulated Robyn Cockburn and commended the work of the Equity Commission.

“The ONOC Equity Commission plays a vital role in our mission to build a more inclusive and representative sporting community in Oceania. Through its leadership, we are seeing real progress in creating pathways for women and underrepresented groups across all levels of sport. Their work continues to challenge norms, inspire change, and drive equity-focused initiatives that are transforming the landscape of sport in our region.,” Dr Mitchell said.

About the ACE Award

Established by ONOC's Equity Commission, the ACE Award (Advocates for Change through Equity) honours individuals who demonstrate visionary leadership and impactful contributions to the advancement of women and gender equality in sport. Nominations are open to all National Olympic Committees and members of the Organisation of Sports Federations of Oceania (OSFO).

For more information or media enquiries, contact:

Liz Dawson
equitycommission@onoc.org.fj

Sitiveni Tawakevou
sitiveni@oceanianoc.org