Happy International Women’s Day
This International Women’s Day, we’re celebrating the women pushing paddling—and possibilities—forward.
From expedition kayakers and whitewater pioneers to community leaders building inclusive paddling spaces, their stories inspire all of us to get out on the water.
On Paddling Magazine TV, you can watch films that highlight the courage, creativity and community women bring to paddlesports. Stream powerful stories, including films from the latest Paddling Film Festival World Tour and award-winning documentaries from around the globe.
Here’s to the women who explore farther, paddle stronger and inspire the next generation.
Happy International Women’s Day,
The Paddling Magazine Team
Mother River
A look into Devin Brown's life as she attempts to be the first Black female on record to kayak the entire Mississippi River, from source to sea.
The Moondance
Watch kayak guides living and breathing by the dance between the moon and the tide as they experience the bounty of the Salish Sea.
Capsized
While many dream of summiting peaks or visiting remote islands, Emily seeks esoteric adventures, like dragging a canoe across a bog. She and a friend set out to navigate the Isle of Lewis' lochs. However, finding suitable gear is challenging for Emily, as outdoor shops often only stock clothing up to size 16, limiting adventure possibilities for the 45% of UK women who wear larger sizes.
Wood On Water
Wood On Water is a 40-day, all-female canoe adventure in the Canadian wilderness with 12 young women, including nine teenagers. They face challenges like bug bites, cold, and muskeg bogs while carrying heavy canoes. This counter-culture summer allows them to explore both their physical surroundings and inner selves, away from societal expectations.
On The Edge
Five women embarked on an eight-day, 65-mile packrafting journey in Montana, initially inspired by self-growth, adventure, and fishing. The trip evolved into a deeper exploration of the future of conservation and ethical wilderness recreation in a changing climate.
Ganga Girls
Naina Adhikari, an Indian professional kayaker aims to bring girls together and create an inclusive community in India's male-dominated kayaking scene. This empowering project supports girls, introducing them to kayaking and self-discovery.
Van By A River - The Abby Holcombe Story
A decade ago, Peter and Kathy Holcombe embarked on a life of adventure in a Winnebago RV with their daughter, Abby. They fostered her love for the outdoors and kayaking, which led her to pursue a Freestyle Kayak World Championship.
Changing The Flow
In Nepal, women are traditionally expected to manage household duties, but not to become raft guides. In the late 2000s, Inka Gurung introduced Sita Thapa to kayaking, sparking her quest for independence. Recognizing river guiding as a potential path, Sita and three other women founded The Himalayan Adventure Girls in 2018, Nepal's first all-female rafting company.
Chicas Al Agua
In Futaleufú, Chile, there are very few female paddlers, but they aim to change that. After discussions, a kayak course for local teenage girls was created. With support from women worldwide, this dream has become an inspiring community initiative.