GEORGIA Purdy, of Wellington AFC, gave a speech at the recent FA Leadership Academy graduation.

Georgia is the club’s Wildcats Youth Council Lead, U16 girls coach and new Wildcats ladies manager.

She is also now preparing to take on the role of Chair of the Somerset FA Youth Council.

At the graduation, Georgia shared her journey through football and how the FA Leadership Academy (FALA25) helped shape her as a leader.

She spoke about arriving at FALA questioning whether she belonged, battling self-doubt and navigating personal challenges which left her questioning her own worth.

Rather than letting those moments define her, she embraced each opportunity, stepped outside her comfort zone and discovered something which has transformed her journey.

Since then, Georgia has turned opportunities into action – from leading the Youth Council, developing projects to improve the game, progressing her coaching journey, supporting girls’ football across Somerset and Exeter, and now stepping into managing the ladies’ team.

A club spokesperson said: “At Wellington AFC, we are incredibly proud to have supported Georgia’s journey and to see her continue inspiring the next generation of players and young leaders.

“Her story is a reminder that leadership isn’t about being the loudest person in the room— it’s about believing in your value, creating opportunities for others and having the courage to keep moving forward, even when the path feels uncertain.”

Georgia told the graduation ceremony: “Take every opportunity. Ask the questions. Have the conversations. Step outside your comfort zone, because that’s where growth happens.

“Your age doesn’t define your leadership. Your confidence today doesn’t define your potential tomorrow.

“Believe in yourselves. Believe in each other. And above all, believe in belief.”

The club spokesperson added: “We are excited to continue working alongside her across her many roles at Wellington and can’t wait to see what she achieves next.

“Congratulations, Georgia – we are all very proud of you.”