To support our ongoing commitment to improving the diversity and representation of our imagery, stories and sport, we are introducing a new initiative across our media channels – the Paddler Spotlight. See how your story could be featured!
What is the Paddler Spotlight?
The Paddler Spotlight is a monthly commitment from Paddle UK to showcase case studies, events, experiences, and a broader range of stories from our wonderful community to address the lack of representation of particular communities across paddling.
We received lots of feedback through the National Inclusion Survey that we need to do more to improve the diversity and representation of our imagery and stories – that is, to share more from people of different backgrounds, identities and experiences. We recognise that our media lacks diversity when it comes to ethnic diversity and the representation of people with disabilities, for example, and we hope to make positive changes through this new initiative.
Check out some of our previous Paddler Spotlight stories:
Anastasia Mylona on how learning to paddle helped her mental and physical health
East London’s new community paddling club
Learning to whitewater kayak with a disability
The women connecting communities along our canals
How can I share my story for the Paddler Spotlight?
All you have to do is share your story with us via our form here or if you prefer to send us an email, get in touch at . We'll do the rest! Don’t forget to include photos to bring your story to life.
You can submit your story as an individual or on behalf of someone else or a group. You can also tell us about events that you might be running; initiatives you're supporting throughout the year; case studies on clubs or deliverers running programmes to connect paddling with new communities; or spotlights on individuals breaking down barriers and working hard to make our sport more equitable, diverse and inclusive.
What will you include in the Paddler Spotlight?
We strive to share as many stories as we can from across the paddling community, and we do our best to ensure these are aligned with the many awareness and celebration days, weeks and months as possible. We're hopeful that we'll see lots of submissions through our form, so please bear with us as we process them – there will be no guarantee that your submission will be shared the month you submit it, but it may appear in later months so keep an eye out!
For more guidance on what we're looking for and how to submit your story, download our guidance document here.
What about other times of the month or year?
We recognise that equality, diversity and inclusion isn't just about one-off actions – it's about everyday, consistent commitments to change. So alongside the Paddler Spotlight, we'll continue to celebrate and educate during other national and international events, such as Pride Month, International Men's Day, or International Day of Persons with Disabilities. The purpose of the Paddler Spotlight is to support this ongoing work, and platform a broader range of voices and experiences.
Have questions about the Paddler Spotlight?
Get in touch with our media team at . If you would like to submit an entry to the Paddler Spotlight, but prefer to do this over the phone, please contact the above email address to discuss this option.