From 25 – 26 June, the National Sports & Physical Activity Convention (NSC25) took place in Melbourne, Australia. The event brought together the largest gathering of sports, recreation, leisure facility, sports grounds, sports management, fitness, council, schools and play industry professionals?from across the ecosystem to explore the latest products and services and the conference theme of "Sports Impact on Society", celebrating the transformative power of sport to promote inclusion, improve health, and drive positive societal change.?
The event featured keynotes, impact sessions, and over 20 workshops for sharing insights and strategies. Participants also had opportunities for networking, collaboration, knowledge sharing, and building partnerships.
TAFISA was proudly represented by Secretary General Jean-François Laurent, who joined the PitchFEST panel discussion, "Innovation Meets Real-World Challenges." The session featured professionals pitching creative strategies to answer the question: "What innovative strategies can create more active environments with lasting impact?" The audience included experts in urban planning, sport facility design, parks and recreation, public health, and government policy, all committed to shaping active, resilient, and inclusive communities.
The convention aligns with TAFISA's vision by fostering collaborative policy dialogue and strategic action to show how Sport for All can help build a brighter, more inclusive future for current and future generations.
ACTIVE CITIES FRAMEWORK WORKSHOP
As part of the NSC25 side events, an Active Cities Framework Workshop was held, led by TAFISA Secretary General Jean-François Laurent, WSYD Moving Chairperson Lori Modde, and Greater Manchester Moving Board Member John Oxley. 
The Active City Capacity-Building Workshop aimed to:
- Raise awareness among participants about the benefits of promoting Sport for All and physical activity, the importance of the urban environment in driving this agenda, and the concept and philosophy of Active Cities, highlighting their potential impact and what can be achieved.
- Strengthen the capacity of participants to develop effective strategies, initiatives, and programmes that promote Sport for All and physical activity, while supporting the design of Active Cities.
- Foster innovative thinking and encourage active engagement among participants.
The workshop also offered a platform for sharing real-world case studies, exchanging ideas and experiences, and fostering peer learning and collaboration.
