After 10 years working to represent and develop the outdoor sports sector on a European level, ENOS is delighted to welcome the first two employees of the network. This achievement will allow to increase the capacity of the organisation and a more effective development of its mission and the services offered to the members. In the following article we introduce you to the two new staff members in order to bring their competences and vision closer to the members and stakeholders. Through these mini-interviews you will meet the two people who will be in charge of the core work of the network, don’t miss the opportunity to meet them:
Why are you passionate about Outdoor Sports?
L: I am deeply passionate about outdoor sports such as hiking, trail running, mountain biking, and sea-related activities, especially since my time living in Portugal. In fact, they represent my attitude toward life, as these activities offer me a profound connection to nature and a sense of freedom and adventure. Besides this, the special sense of community and camaraderie among fellow outdoor sports enthusiasts bring me the social joy of these experiences.
How is your background going to help you in your new role?
L: With my background in nature conservation, nature-based tourism, and outdoor sports and recreation, I bring an understanding of the interplay between natural environments and recreational activities to my new role. This experience will enable me to align with ENOS vision and effectively contribute to initiatives aimed at promoting sustainable outdoor sports experiences while safeguarding the environment.
What is your future vision for the outdoor sports sector?
L: My vision for the outdoor sports sector has to revolve around creating greater accessibility, sustainability, and inclusivity. Also, I envision a sector that is aware about the current and future socio-environmental issues, and is part of the solutions to address societal challenges, simultaneously providing human well-being and biodiversity benefits. I believe, cross-sector collaboration with various stakeholders, including government agencies, conservation organisations, NGOs, clubs and grassroot organisations, local communities, and sport practitioners will be key to realising this vision. This will foster a vibrant outdoor sports sector that promotes physical activity, environmental stewardship, and fosters closer harmony with the cultural and natural world.
Why are you passionate about Outdoor Sports?
A: Outdoor sports have represented for me a different way of looking at the world and above all a tool. A tool to learn and to develop skills but also a tool to get closer to nature, to meet new people, new places and to have a more and better connected life with the environment. The opportunities provided through sports such as kayaking and skiing have allowed me to develop a professional career according to my passions and undertake initiatives related to education, inclusion and nature protection.
How is your background going to help you in your new role?
A: Having worked for the environmental and outdoor sports sector at a European level has allowed me to understand the necessary connection between the two sectors. Through a specific focus on protected areas and different management models I was able to gain knowledge on how to ensure accessibility to nature for society, while minimising impact and using sport as a means to achieve the implementation of different European policies.
What is your future vision for the outdoor sports sector?
A: My vision for the sector is to achieve a sustainable development that allows outdoor sports to become a tool to face the current challenges of society in terms of health, education and environment, in the same way that it has been a tool for me on a personal level. On the one hand to be able to effectively communicate the importance and positive impact of outdoor sports, and on the other hand to create projects and partnerships to achieve the objectives of the different countries through useful and innovative initiatives.