GOLD COAST (Australia) - FIBA in Oceania is proud to celebrate the selection of Meaghan Wilby of New Zealand and Michelle Kautz of the Northern Mariana Islands for the FIBA Women Leaders’ Program Supported by Molten #KeepPlaying initiative, a recognition that places two emerging Oceania leaders on the international stage in the lead‑up to the FIBA Women’s Basketball World Cup in Berlin.
Both women are current participants in the Women in Basketball – Leadership (WiLEAD) program in the Oceania region, and their inclusion reflects the growing influence of Pacific voices in shaping the future of the sport.
“Recognising women who are leading change at the grassroots level is essential to the growth of our sport, and this partnership with Molten allows their impact to be seen on a global stage,” FIBA Executive Director – Oceania, Amanda Jenkins said.
“The women selected are not only strengthening participation in their own communities, but they are also shaping the future of basketball across our region. Their leadership reflects FIBA’s long-term commitment to empowering girls, increasing visibility for women in basketball, and ensuring that every pathway, from local courts to the world stage, remains open and sustainable.”
Molten, FIBA’s longest‑standing global partner, launched the #KeepPlaying initiative to address youth dropout rates, strengthen female participation, and elevate women who are driving change in their communities. The program forms part of a multi‑year commitment to create sustainable pathways for girls and young women, building on initiatives such as the Female Local Champions program and global campaigns that highlight role models across Europe, Asia, the Americas, and now Oceania.
“We were profoundly impressed by how the each WiLEAD Oceania projects identified local challenges and turned them into actionable solutions,” Head of Brand Marketing Molten Corporation, Noa Hasegawa said.
“Hearing the story of a young girl gaining confidence and leadership through the game reminded us exactly why we advocate for 'Keep Playing.' We believe this initiative will ensure that more girls have the opportunity to stay in the game and grow as leaders. We believe this collective passion for 'Women in Basketball' to create a ripple effect, evolving into a global movement that inspires every FIBA Regional Office to empower the next generation.”
Within this global context, Meaghan and Michelle stand out as powerful examples of leadership emerging from Oceania. Michelle, known as Mikki throughout the basketball community, has played a pivotal role in expanding opportunities for girls in the Northern Mariana Islands, demonstrating the creativity and determination that characterise many women leading basketball development in small island communities.
“This Women in Basketball – Leadership Program has created opportunities for women, like me, to step into leadership roles both on and off the court,” Mikki said. “They also provide opportunities for increased representation within our community. These programs help boost visibility for women in sports.”
Meaghan has been a strong advocate for women’s leadership and community engagement in New Zealand, contributing to environments where girls feel supported to stay in the game.
"This is a huge honour and if young me knew that this is where she would end up, I’m not sure she would believe it, by wow would she be amazed," Meaghan said. "I now have the incredible pleasure of working in this sport, growing the game for women and girls and managing national programmes to ensure that all young people who want to play this sport have the opportunity to do so, and that when they do, our sport looks after them."
Their selection also highlights the growing impact of the Women in Basketball – Leadership Program (WiLEAD), which continues to strengthen pathways for women across the Oceania and the globe, by building confidence, capability, and connection.
As the world turns its attention toward Berlin 2026, the #KeepPlaying initiative will shine a spotlight on women whose leadership inspires the next generation. Through their involvement, Meaghan and Mikki will bring Pacific perspectives to a global audience, reinforcing the region’s commitment to empowering girls and women through basketball.
About FIBA
FIBA (fiba.basketball) - the world governing body for basketball, is an independent association formed by 212 National Basketball Federations throughout the world. It is recognized as the sole competent authority in basketball by the International Olympic Committee (IOC).
For further information about FIBA, visit fiba.basketball and about.fiba.basketball or follow FIBA on Facebook, X, Instagram, LinkedIn and YouTube.
About Molten
Molten established in1958 in Hiroshima, has been manufacturing and selling sporting goods such as game balls for basketball, handball, soccer, and volleyball based on uncompromising quality.
Molten creates the official game balls and other innovative products such as whistles, digital scoreboards and wider sports equipment that are used in international competitions, by the world’s top leagues and teams, and continues to increase the level of quality as the global standard.
About Molten & FIBA
Molten is FIBA’s longest standing Global Partner - celebrating 40 years of international collaboration in 2022 - and working hand in hand with FIBA to support the rise of girls and women in basketball. Please visit our website for more details URL: https://www.molten.co.jp/sports/en/