World Rugby and WeAre8 Partner to Advance Social Media Wellbeing

World Rugby and WeAre8 have partnered in a commitment to digital safety and well-being with the collaboration aiming to offer the rugby community a more inclusive and equitable social experience.

In a press release, they said, “The partnership is a major advancement in the protection of social communities with World Rugby being the first governing body to migrate part of their social content to the platform. It reflects World Rugby’s strong ongoing commitment to providing a safe space for players, match officials  and fans and to tackle the toxic nature of online abuse and hate in rugby via its collaboration with Signify.”

WeAre8 was founded by Zoe Kalar, an Australian tech entrepreneur, and the company has tried to create a “safe, positive social platform, WeAre8 leverages advanced AI moderation systems to eliminate toxic content. It does not use algorithms to control what people see and how they feel; instead, it enables people to reach and engage with their full community through every post.”

WeAre8 Managing Director – Australia, Danika Johnston, commented: “We are proud to partner with World Rugby. They have a long history of demonstrating the power of sport as a unifying force for good and this partnership amplifies those efforts, whilst ushering in a new era for social media on WeAre8. We look forward to elevating their content and players and demonstrating how the economics of a new social media model can benefit all parts of the community when we stand together.”

The media release adds that in their advertising model, for every ad viewed, a portion of the advertising revenue is shared directly with the viewer, as well as with community groups, charities like ChildFund Rugby, as well as other projects which promote a positive impact for both people and the planet.

What Impact Will This Have?

World Rugby’s Head of Digital Business Development, Fran Vavallo, said: “This partnership represents a natural alignment of values and vision as we work tirelessly to protect and support players and officials who experience online abuse and is reflective of our wider strategy in this important area.

WeAre8’s commitment to creating a space that prioritises safety, positivity and community empowerment aligns with World Rugby’s dedication to unite communities through integrity, respect and inclusivity.

WeAre8 is living proof that social media doesn’t need to be a playground for abuse or trolling, and we look forward to offering fans and players an alternative where they can authentically connect and help us make rugby events a safe and inclusive space – on the field, in the stands and across the digital sphere.”

World Rugby, RugbyPass and the Stronger than You Think podcast will make use of the services and the partnership will extend into player awareness with adoption in 2025.  ChildFund Rugby will also benefit from the pay-it-forward contributions in the WeAre8 Wallet.

World Rugby Partnership News

• Red Bull Partners With World Rugby As Energy Drink Partner for HSBC SVNS 2025.
• World Rugby Partners With Fanatics For Global Licensed Merchandise & Retail Experience.
• World Rugby Extends Partnership With Two Circles.
• World Rugby and STH Sign Contract Until Rugby World Cup 2029 To Offer Premium Experiences.