The Next Level Sports Conference highlights women’s entry into the industry – Annenberg Media

Hosted by USC, the Next Level Sports Conference attracted students and industry leaders to the Inuit Dome to explore the future of all sports: industry, media, technology and culture. A key focus for many participants was the future of women entering the sports industry and the importance of representation there.

Constance Schwartz-Morini, co-founder and CEO of SMAC Entertainment, described her journey to becoming a prominent figure in the industry. From a secretary at the NFL to CEO of a leading entertainment company, Schwartz-Morini’s entrepreneurial spirit, work ethic and strong network connections paved the way to her success.

While entering sports still presents challenges for women, Schwartz-Morini encourages women to overcome barriers and create positive change.

“I would like to say there isn’t one [challenges]but it’s much better,” Schwartz-Morini said. “And there’s a reason I went from behind the camera to the front to say more, because if you can’t be part of the change, you have no right to complain about anything.”

Ayonnah Tinsley, a graduate majoring in arts, technology and business innovation, described how she found a community in LA’s sports scene that led to her becoming a student host of the conference.

“It means so much. I want to go further and say how much it means to me as a black woman that I’m going to introduce Chiney Ogwumike, who I believe just signed a media extension to her contract with ESPN,” Tinsley said. “The fact that I can even share the stage with her and, you know, be in her presence and say her name to the crowd just means so much.”

Schwartz-Morini advised young women looking to break into the industry to surround themselves with mentors and rely on male and female colleagues to support each other’s growth.

“We are all here to help each other,” Schwartz-Morini said. “I don’t think any of the men I’ve worked with have ever looked at me and said, ‘Oh, that’s a woman and she can’t do that.’ It’s always like, ‘Wow, she’s a woman, and pay attention.'”

For Tinsley, Schwartz-Morini is an inspiration to not only be successful in sports, but also to enjoy the journey.

“I think she just focused on what it took to get to this point. It’s like the hard work comes after you find your team, after you get the funding, after you close all the partnerships, and then the hard work even starts there,” Tinsley said. “Really enjoy the journey because no part of it will be easier. Each difficult part just seems to build on each other and get more layers.”

Schwartz-Morini said she looks forward to a bright future for women entering the sports industry.

“I just look forward to the day when people are no longer the ‘most powerful woman in sports’ or the ‘most powerful woman in entertainment.’ I just want to be the most powerful in what I do,” said she.