Growing up in Armenia, Naira Abramyan has always been a passionate fan of soccer and FIFA World Cup matches. Naira is one of the only women in her country working in a sport management role, and she attributes the lack of women in the field to gender norms present in Armenia. She believes the lack of equality between men and women not only affects the personal dynamics of family, but also greatly impacts employment. “Women in my country are expected to dedicate themselves to having a family and taking care of the household,” she says. “They are housewives only. The women and girls that do pursue a degree from the university and graduate are limited in the jobs they can choose.”

Naira is in a predominantly male space as the Expert of the International Department and Manager of FIFA Transfer Matching System for the Football Federation of Armenia. In her role, Naira serves as the main point of contact for international efforts and is responsible for all international transfers of Armenian National Team players. Naira hopes to continue growing in her career, becoming a visible role model for other young women interested in a professional career in the sports industry.