We are excited to continue our Athlete & Influencer Programme spotlights with Donna York, @climate_social_club, an Austria-based outdoor enthusiast and climate storyteller from Atlanta, USA, focused on making the outdoors more inclusive, accessible, and welcoming for all.
Through climate workshops, community events, and her podcast The Unheard Climate Voices, she creates spaces where more people—especially those often left out of outdoor culture—can connect with nature and each other. Her work blends sustainability with storytelling to challenge who the outdoors is “for” and to open it up to new voices and experiences.
We Spoke to Donna about her connection with the outdoors, and what she is excited to see at ISPO this year.
1. Tell us a bit about you and your sporting background
I’m a sustainability expert and climate communicator with a background in building inclusive spaces, especially in the outdoors. My connection to sport isn’t traditional or competitive, it’s rooted in access, community, and storytelling. I’ve used outdoor activities as a way to bring people together and rethink who gets to belong in these spaces and learning about nature. For me, movement and nature go hand in hand, and I’ve spent years helping others feel more confident stepping into both.
2. What is your favourite sport
Hiking, hands down. It gives me everything I need: challenge, reflection, and a reset. There’s something powerful about being out on a trail, especially when you don’t see many people who look like you. It feels like reclaiming space in a quiet but meaningful way
3. What are you most looking forward to at ISPO
I’m really excited about the conversations. ISPO brings together people who are shaping the future of sport, and I’m especially interested in where sustainability, innovation, and inclusion intersect. I want to see how brands are moving beyond performative commitments and actually creating access for underrepresented communities.
4. If you could train with any athlete (past or present), who would it be?
Serena Williams. Not just for her athleticism, but for her mindset. The discipline, the resilience, the way she’s navigated spaces that weren’t built for her. I’d want to understand how she stays mentally strong and grounded under pressure.
5. How do you use your social media channels to connect with your audience?
I use my platforms to tell stories that don’t usually get told, especially around climate, identity, and the outdoors. Whether it’s through my podcast or visual storytelling, I try to create content that feels honest and accessible. It’s less about perfection and more about building a real connection, starting conversations, and making people feel seen.
6. What’s something people would be surprised to learn about you (fun fact!)
I‘ve been obsessed about Korean culture since I was 15. yeah, Kpop and everything. In my free time I just sing old Korean songs and cook Korean vegan food.
We can’t wait to welcome Donna to the Expo this November! Don’t forget to register for your ticket to attend.
Have a platform and a love for sport? We'd love for you to join the programme!