Rhian Wilkinson

Rhian Wilkinson is a celebrated top-level Coach, former Olympian and elite football coach whose influence extends far beyond the pitch. Now at the Head Coach of the Welsh women’s football team, she has established herself as a powerhouse of skill, determination and vision. Having guided Wales to their first-ever qualification for the UEFA Women’s Euro 2025, Rhian continues to demonstrate the impact of leadership that is both ambitious and inclusive. Her career reflects an extraordinary journey through the highest levels of international sport, which today positions her as one of the most compelling voices on diversity and inclusion.

Rhian’s path began on the international stage as a player for Canada, where she earned an astonishing 183 caps across a 14-year career. Competing across the globe, she represented Canada, the United States, and Norway at the club level, while appearing in four FIFA Women’s World Cups and three Olympic Games. She won bronze medals in London and Rio, achievements that underlined her ability to thrive under pressure. Following her retirement, she transitioned seamlessly into coaching, first as Assistant Coach with Canadian Soccer and Head of Women’s Soccer at Vancouver Whitecaps. Her coaching journey expanded to leading Canada’s U17 and U20 sides before joining the coaching set-up in England and supporting Team GB at the Tokyo Olympics. She later took charge of the Portland Thorns before returning to Europe to transform Welsh women’s football.

Alongside her success on the field, Rhian has collected a remarkable array of accolades. A three-time Pan American Games medallist and five-time Quebec Player of the Year, her contribution to football has been recognised with induction into the Canada Soccer Hall of Fame. This honour cements her reputation as not only an outstanding player and coach, but also as a figure whose influence has helped to shape the sport for future generations.

What makes Rhian exceptional as a diversity and inclusion speaker is her lived experience of navigating and excelling in male-dominated environments. She understands first-hand the challenges faced by women in sport and has built her career on resilience, adaptability and breaking barriers. Rhian speaks with authenticity about teamwork, equality and the importance of creating inclusive spaces where everyone can succeed. Her story is one of trailblazing leadership, showing audiences the power of embracing difference and empowering others. Whether discussing her Olympic highs or her role in shaping the next generation of athletes, Rhian inspires people to push boundaries and become the best versions of themselves.