As part of our commitment to the National Principles for Child Safe Organisations, SportWest’s Voices of Children and Young People Advisory Group plays a vital role in ensuring that children and young people are informed about their rights, actively participate in decisions that affect them, and are always taken seriously — aligning with National Principle 2.
This week, we’re excited to profile one of our valued Advisory Group members, Adam Popham. With over five years of experience working in sport through an Inclusion and Diversity lens, Adam has held impactful roles at Inclusion Solutions and Swimming WA. His passion for creating safe, welcoming, and inclusive environments for all young people shines through in his work.
Find out more in our Q&A with Adam below:
1. Can you share an experience—positive or challenging—you’ve had in sport that made you realise how important it is for young people to be heard in this space?
At 13, during my second year of umpiring, I experienced some poor sideline behaviour that made me question my future in sport, particularly in officiating. Fortunately, the umpiring association provided me with exceptional personal support afterwards, and the many benefits of being involved in sport ultimately outweighed the actions of a vocal minority. Whilst this was challenging, the experiences provided me with resilience, leadership skills and the ability to speak up.
That’s why opportunities like this are so important. They offer a powerful platform for the voices of children and young people to be heard, play a vital role in shaping the future of sport in Western Australia and improving the sporting experience for all.
2. What’s one thing you’ve learned since joining the Advisory Group that surprised or inspired you?
The passion, attitude and ideas of the younger members of the advisory group. It shows that you don’t need years of professional experience to have an idea or perspective that improves and enhances the delivery of sport in Western Australia. The diverse perspectives and youthful insights have been so powerful in shaping programming and resources and I am enjoying connecting with likeminded young people.
3. What do you think makes sport fun and meaningful for kids and young people today?
Connection, a feeling of improvement and positive role models.
4. How do you think sport can be more welcoming for everyone, no matter their background, ability, or experience?
It's important to provide opportunities, whether in-person or through communications such as registration forms, for club members to share what they need to feel genuinely supported and heard. I also think it's crucial to avoid websites, forms, flyers, and processes that are overly wordy or complex.
5. Why do you think it’s important for organisations like SportWest to hear directly from young people like you?
I believe the perspective we bring is vital to the decisions made daily by State Sporting Associations and Local or State Governments. This viewpoint is often difficult to capture, as feedback typically comes from parents completing surveys and forms. Additionally, it's challenging to include children and young people in formal discussions, as many are in school, university, or working casual jobs.
