Our Network & Team

Connected Through Partnership

NYSA's strength lies in its global network. From universities and sports organisations to NGOs and community partners across three continents, we build relationships that create real and lasting impact worldwide.

Meet Our People

Our People

NYSA is powered by a diverse community of leaders, coaches, educators, interns and ambassadors united by a shared commitment to our vision.

Owen Southgate

Founder

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Owen Southgate

Innovative educator and sport development specialist passionate about empowering youth through dual careers, play, and creativity. Blends sport, entrepreneurship, and education to challenge norms and foster lifelong learning.

Lucy Southgate

COO & EU Project
Manager

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Lucy Southgate

Motivated professional with a proven record of results across industries. Adaptable, proactive, and passionate about learning, leadership, and collaboration. Committed to empowering others, fostering inclusivity, and building a legacy of leaders.

Emma Cotterill

CEO

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Emma Cotterill

Strategic leader passionate about impactful, collaborative projects that empower communities. With a legal background and change management expertise, builds resilient and equitable systems that uplift marginalized voices.

Chris Mingay

Impact Development Manager

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Chris Mingay

Experienced mentor and coach with a diverse background spanning youth inclusion, high-performance sport, and leadership. Passionate about empowering individuals through mentoring, coaching, and EU sport initiatives.

Geri Junghausz

Business Development Officer

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Geri Junghausz

Aspiring business professional and current student, passionate about innovation, growth, and building meaningful partnerships. Supports development initiatives with fresh perspective and entrepreneurial spirit.

Leonarda Baltina

Athlete Development Officer

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Leonarda Baltina

Athlete Development Officer with a background in competitive sport and sports studies. My work includes supporting coach education and contributing to athlete development initiatives and international projects, involved in a range of ongoing programs and projects across the organisation.

Vala Armani

Brand & Content Developer

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Vala Armani

Business and economics background brought to life through content, strategy, and hands on execution across social media, EU projects, and web development. Adaptable and driven, with a firm belief that the right mix of creativity and work ethic can turn any idea into something real.

Yoana Ivanova

Media & Content Developer

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Yoana Ivanova

Creative professional with a background in New Media Design, working across graphic design, branding, website development, and social media to deliver engaging visual content.

George Cork

Esports Development Officer

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George Cork

Visionary esports education leader with expertise in curriculum design, industry partnerships, and academic innovation. Passionate about empowering students and redefining the intersection of gaming and education.

Ben Voyce

Strength & Conditioning
Coach

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Ben Voyce

High-performance strength & conditioning coach with dual roles in elite women's football and academia. Specializes in athlete development, load management, and bridging cutting-edge sport science with practical application at the highest level.

Conor Heeney

Performance Sport
Analyst

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Conor Heeney

Experienced performance coach specializing in strength & conditioning, sport science, and athlete development across combat. Committed to advancing athlete performance through evidence-based training and interdisciplinary collaboration.

Simon Forsberg

Project Development Officer

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Simon Forsberg

Passionate about inspiring young people to follow their dreams, with a strong background in high-level sports. Energetic, social, and driven, with a constant desire to learn, grow, and take on new challenges every day.

Network Overview