Ferrexpo contributes to the success of Ukrainian women’s football

The company plays an important role in the development of women's football team Vorskla from Poltava

Ferrexpo plays an important role in the development of women’s football in Ukraine. For many years, it has been supporting the Vorskla women’s football team from Poltava, which this year won its fifth Ukrainian championship. This support covers not only financial aspects, but also promotes women’s sports, which still faces serious challenges, such as insufficient funding, stereotypes, and lack of infrastructure, according to the UP article.

Ukrainian women’s football does not receive adequate attention in the media space, it is rarely broadcast on television, and teams face funding problems. Many female athletes are forced to look for additional sources of income or give up their sports careers due to lack of support. However, Ferrexpo’s contribution has changed the situation for the Poltava-based Vorskla team. According to Viktor Lotous, CEO of the Poltava Mining and Processing Plant, the company sees its mission not only in supporting professional sports but also in promoting gender equality in Ukraine. This is especially true in the context of sports, where women often face stereotypes and underestimation.

In recent years, thanks to Ferrexpo’s support, Vorskla has been able to develop its potential by gaining access to modern infrastructure and opportunities for development. The funding covers the costs of logistics, training camps and travel to competitions, allowing the athletes to focus on their sporting achievements. However, it also helps boost self-confidence, which is important in the fight against gender stereotypes.

Vorskla defender Karina Voit says that she often faces unexpected reactions when she tells people that she plays football. In her opinion, such comments are evidence of the deep-rooted stereotypes that still prevail in society about women athletes. Nevertheless, thanks to their achievements and constant work on themselves, the team is gradually breaking down these stereotypes.

The coaching staff also plays an important role in this process. Volodymyr Yefimako, head coach of Vorskla, emphasizes that professional sports are impossible without business support. The partnership with Ferrexpo has not only stabilized the financial situation but also provided opportunities for the development of new players and the popularization of women’s football among young people.

Another important aspect is Ferrexpo’s involvement in projects that support gender equality at the company-wide level. According to Victor Lotous, gender equality is one of the company’s top priorities, and this idea is being actively implemented not only in sports but also in production. The company is increasing the number of women in production positions, implementing policies of inclusiveness and equal opportunities. This demonstrates Ferrexpo’s systematic approach to gender issues, which is part of its long-term strategy.

Supporting women’s football in Ukraine is undoubtedly an example of how business can actively contribute to social change. Ferrexpo not only makes a significant contribution to the sporting achievements of the Vorskla team, but also helps to change attitudes towards women in sports, promoting equal rights and opportunities for all.

Ferrexpo continues to implement its DEI (diversity, equity and inclusion) policy at its enterprises. Since 2016, Ferrexpo’s HR strategy has been guided by the principles of equality, inclusion and diversity. Employees of the Group’s enterprises have every opportunity to realize their potential regardless of gender, provided they have the relevant knowledge and competencies – this is the approach taken at Poltava, Yeristovo and Belanovo Mining.