Susanne Schödel

SUI

Role

Secretary General

Organization

FAI World Air Sports Federation

Susanne Schödel joined the World Air Sports Federation (FAI) as Secretary General in early 2014.

Since obtaining her glider pilot’s licence at the age of 25, Schödel has perfected her skills to reach the top level in her sport. She is a two-time women’s world champion in gliding and the current world record holder. She has also held a licence for powered planes since 1998.

In addition to her activities in air sports, Schödel has held several positions in non-profit organisations, gaining wide-ranging knowledge in administrative matters and extensive experience in volunteer work. Moreover, she has deep insight into politics and the public sector, having worked for several years at the Ministry of Social Affairs in Hessen, Germany.

The FAI is strongly committed to the future of air sports, including drone racing, with the first official world championship to be held in November 2018 in Shenzhen, China. Originating from esports, the pilots taking part in drone racing events are highly skilled at combining technology and sport. Drones are pushing the boundaries of technology, and as more drones take to the sky, a highly engaged young generation of air sports enthusiasts is being welcomed into the FAI’s sphere.

The speakers

Using the unique power of sport to bring people together, the Olympism in Action Forum saw a range of global players, including Olympic Movement stakeholders, athletes, private and public sector leaders, NGO representatives, academics, artists and the media come together to talk on topical contemporary issues. Chosen because of their ability to effect change and their wide range of sometimes differing opinions, the speakers led lively debates and seeked to challenge received wisdom to inspire new ways of thinking.