The Women in Golf Awards has announced the first three recipients of the Kate & Justin Rose Foundation Bursary.
Created to support women under 21 with education and professional development opportunities, the bursary aims to help nurture the next generation of female talent in golf by removing barriers to training, learning and career progression.
Following applications from across the industry, funding has been awarded to Sophie Easton, a Process Engineering Intern at PING Golf; Natasha Perry, Events and Marketing Co-ordinator at Bramshaw Golf Club and The Bell Inn; and Esme Sothcott, a Greenkeeper at Ferndown Golf Club.
Together, they represent the breadth of opportunities available to young women in golf, spanning manufacturing, marketing and turfcare.
Sophie Easton said: “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.”
Natasha Perry commented: “Thanks to the bursary scheme, 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 bursary will also 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.”
Esme Sothcolt, Greenkeeper at Ferndown Golf Club, said: “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 second application window for the Kate & Justin Rose Foundation Bursary opens on 1 September and closes on 30 November. Find out more at www.womeningolfawards.co.uk.