Sunderland AFC Women’s Academy: Giftstarr is Investing in Excellence with Sponsorship
09th April 2026

Supporting a Rising Star: Elsie’s Journey
At our brand Giftstarr, the mission has always been to celebrate those who shine bright. Whether through Giftstarr’s products or our presence in the community, we are dedicated to fuelling momentum and championing the journey toward success. We are incredibly proud to announce Giftstarr’s official sponsorship of Elsie, a true rising star of the Sunderland AFC Women’s Academy (U9-16) through the Foundation of Light (SAFC).
Seeing the hard work, discipline, and passion that Elsie brings to the pitch is a reminder of why investing in the next generation is so vital.

About The Beacon of Light and Foundation of Light
The Beacon of Light the first community hub of its kind in the UK, providing opportunities for all ages and abilities. All proceeds from the Beacon of Light are donated back to the Sunderland AFC’s official charity, Foundation of Light. This support communities across Sunderland, South Tyneside and County Durham be the best they can be.
Established in 2001 by former Sunderland AFC chairman Sir Bob Murray CBE, Foundation of Light is the official charity of Sunderland AFC. The Foundation of Light works with over 23,000 people every year.
The Foundation is independent from the football club, and responsible for fundraising £4 million each year to run life-changing programmes.

The Sunderland AFC Women’s Academy ‘Girls Football Pathway’
Sunderland Girls Football Pathway includes the FA funded Emerging Talent Centre (ETC). The Sunderland Emerging Talent Centre (ETC) has been incorporated into their already strong player pathway.
The ETC is part of the FA’s Women and Girls’ Player Pathway to unearth the very best talent in England whilst also making the game more diverse, accessible and inclusive.

About Giftstarr
Giftstarr is a leading provider in gift card solutions. Having issued millions of gift cards globally, its mission is to help shopping centres build customer loyalty.
Giftstarr’s innovative solutions offer seamless integration, whilst their personalised features and a user-friendly interface enhances customer engagement and satisfaction. The flexible and scalable solution caters to both personal and corporate gifting demands. Additionally, Giftstarr enables online purchasing channels – for an instant, digital way to buy gift cards.
With Giftstarr’s commitment to innovation and sustainability, shopping centres can elevate the customer experience whilst championing convenience and versatility.
Join the Celebration
We invite our entire Giftstarr community to join us in congratulating Elsie on this incredible milestone! We are beyond excited to watch her impact on the pitch this season and to follow her progress as she navigates the challenges and triumphs of elite academy football.
Here’s to a season of momentum, growth, and plenty of goals!