The Tennessee RiverLine recently celebrated the successful completion of the 2024 Paddlesports Leadership Academy (PLA), a transformative program that brought together ten participants from diverse backgrounds across the nation. Over the course of four days, these emerging leaders received comprehensive training in kayaking, canoeing and stand-up paddleboarding, equipping them with essential skills in technical paddling, risk management and community-building.
This year’s PLA, held from June 13 through June 16 in Knoxville, was conducted in partnership with Anna Levesque of Mind Body Paddle, Gerry Seavo James of the Explore Kentucky Initiative, and George and Zenovia Stephens of Black Kids Adventures. The academy’s curriculum was designed not only to enhance participants’ paddling skills but also to foster leadership qualities that promote access to and representation in outdoor recreation.
“The Paddlesports Leadership Academy empowers individuals to become leaders in their communities by introducing others to the joys of paddlesports. It’s particularly inspiring to see Academy graduates use the experience and skills they’ve gained to introduce paddlesports to their communities, creating a ripple effect of inclusivity and representation on the water,” said Brad Collett, Tennessee RiverLine executive director and professor at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville. “This program is a cornerstone in our efforts to make outdoor recreation on the Tennessee River accessible to all.”
The Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA), a principal partner of the Tennessee RiverLine, has been a strong advocate for the PLA. TVA’s support aligns with their diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) initiatives, recognizing the importance of providing diverse communities with the opportunity to engage in and lead outdoor activities.
“TVA’s mission of service is for all people. We want everyone to enjoy the rich beauty and recreational opportunities that exist within the Tennessee Valley. PLA is another way we can partner to build advocacy and awareness of recreational opportunities along the 652 miles of the Tennessee River” said Rebecca Hayden, director of TVA’s Natural Resources group.
The Tennessee RiverLine, UT Extension and TVA all strive to enhance the quality of life in the Tennessee River Valley through increased access to and engagement in outdoor recreation. The PLA stands as a testament to this shared vision, addressing barriers to access and fostering a new generation of leaders who are ready to champion inclusivity in their communities.
The 2024 graduates of the PLA are now equipped not only with paddling expertise but also with the leadership skills necessary to advocate for and create inclusive spaces on the water. Their journey in the PLA reflects a broader commitment to transforming communities through the power of outdoor recreation.
