Why athletes could be the next generation of climate leaders
By Emilie Vrain & Felippa Amanta, Oxford Climate Leadership Research Centre
Athletes are among the most influential people in society. They inspire millions through their performances, shape culture far beyond their sport, and are trusted voices for fans, communities and the next generation. Increasingly, many are asking themselves an important question: How can I use my platform to make a difference beyond sport?
For a growing number, climate change is part of that answer.
Many athletes care deeply about the issue. They experience its impacts first-hand through extreme heat, poor air quality, changing seasons and disrupted competitions. They want to contribute positively, but many are unsure where to begin.
Unlike other causes, climate change can feel difficult to talk about. Athletes often worry about saying the wrong thing, lacking expertise, facing criticism, or navigating commercial relationships. As a result, many choose to stay silent, despite wanting to make a meaningful contribution.
At the Oxford Climate Leadership Research Centre, we believe there is another way. We bring together world-leading research from the University of Oxford with practical leadership development to help individuals speak about climate change with confidence, credibility, and impact.
To support this work, we are recruiting a cohort of influential athletes to join our Climate Leadership Network.
Members will become part of a unique community of leaders from sport, business and politics who are exploring how to use their influence to encourage climate action and help make climate change a more normal part of everyday conversation.
Through the programme, members will gain access to:
Leadership development: Take part in evidence-based workshops and coaching sessions delivered by Climate Change Coaches, Climate Outreach, climate storytelling expert Josh Ettinger, and an exclusive course for athletes with FrontRunners, covering communication, leadership, and storytelling
Peer network: Connect with other influential leaders who are navigating similar challenges.
Research: Contribute to cutting-edge Oxford research on climate leadership through surveys, interviews, and feedback sessions, and gain early access to new insights, helping shape future programmes and resources.
We are not looking for climate experts, but for people who are interested in learning and committed to using their platform for climate action.
The programme has been designed to fit alongside the demands of elite sport, with flexible opportunities to participate from anywhere in the world.
Our ambition extends beyond this first cohort. We want to build a lasting global network of influential leaders who are helping shape conversations around climate change in ways that are positive, evidence-based, and authentic. By understanding what gives leaders the confidence to step forward and by providing the support they need, we hope to transform how climate leadership develops across sport and beyond.
Apply here: https://leadership.climate.ox.ac.uk/join-us/
Follow the Climate Leadership Research Centre on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/oxford-climate-leadership/