The Women in Golf Awards has announced the first three recipients of the Kate & Justin Rose Foundation Bursary, a new initiative supporting women under 21 with education and professional development opportunities. Following applications from across the industry, funding has been awarded to women working in Turfcare, golf club marketing and manufacturing reflecting the diverse roles young women are choosing for their careers.
Sophie Easton, a Sports Technology student at Loughborough University and Process Engineering intern with PING Golf in Phoenix, received bursary support to attend The International Sports Engineering Association Conference in Washington. She comments: “Thanks to the bursary scheme from the Kate & Justin Rose Foundation, I was able to attend the ISEA 2026 Conference. The conference provided a fantastic opportunity to learn about the latest research and innovations from both academia and industry, with experts sharing developments from golf and a wide range of other sports. The experience gave me valuable insights that I can apply throughout my career, while broadening my understanding of the technologies and innovations shaping the future of sport. I am incredibly grateful for this opportunity and excited to continue building a career in the golf industry, contributing to the ongoing relationship between golf and engineering.”
Natasha Perry, Events and Marketing Co-ordinator at Bramshaw Golf Club and The Bell Inn, has received funding to complete a CMI Team Leader Diploma and the Mastering Digital Marketing in an AI World programme. The courses will strengthen her leadership and digital marketing skills, supporting her impact in her current role and across the wider golf industry. She said: “I feel very privileged to have received this bursary from the Kate & Justin Rose Foundation, it has made it possible for me to pursue an opportunity that would otherwise have been out of reach. It will allow me to expand my knowledge, gain valuable new skills, and bring fresh ideas back to my role in marketing and events at the golf club. I am excited to use what I learn to improve my work, contribute to the club’s success, and continue developing both personally and professionally.”
Esme Sothcott, a greenkeeper at Ferndown Golf Club, has received funding to complete the BIGGA Kickstart programme. New to the industry, she has already shown strong commitment to a long-term career in greenkeeping, and the programme will support her continued development. She remarked: “I am incredibly grateful to receive this support from the Kate & Justin Rose Foundation. As someone beginning a career in greenkeeping, this support will help me continue developing my knowledge and practical skills within the industry. I’m proud to be part of Ferndown Golf Club, where I’ve already learned so much, and I’m excited to use this opportunity to further my development and contribute to the future women in my profession.”
The Kate & Justin Rose Foundation Bursary was created to help nurture the next generation of female talent in golf by removing barriers to education, training and career development. The second application window opens on 1 September and closes on 30 November.