Imagine women gathering along the banks of rivers across the world—women from different cultures and backgrounds coming together to learn, grow, and connect through the transformative power of water. Inspired by the success of Riverbound Founder Melissa DeMarie’s keynote address at the 1er Encuentro Internacional Mujeres del Rio in Pucon, Chile, we are embarking on a journey to bring events like this to communities worldwide. These gatherings celebrate women’s strength, resilience, and leadership, creating safe spaces where they inspire each other and advocate for environmental stewardship.

At the heart of this vision is the idea of connection. At the Mujeres del Rio event in Chile, women from Mexico, Central and South America stood shoulder to shoulder, competing as teammates in the Pan American Rafting Championships and learning as collaborators through workshops, films, and conversations. The day began with yoga on the shores of Lake Villarica, grounding participants in nature and preparing them for a day of shared learning and empowerment. Melissa, with her 20 years of experience in the whitewater industry, shared her journey as a guide, instructor, and business owner, offering insights on building mental resilience in an industry where women are often underrepresented.

Inspired by the success of this gathering, we dream of hosting similar events around the U.S. and the world. These gatherings are immersive experiences, weaving together team-building activities, leadership workshops, and discussions led by trailblazing women in the outdoor industry. Mornings begin with yoga or cultural rituals unique to the region, grounding participants in a sense of place and purpose. Days are filled with sessions that teach technical skills for river recreation, while afternoons might feature film screenings or inspiring speakers. Each event closes with opportunities for reflection and connection, ensuring that participants leave not only with knowledge but with a global community of support.

This vision extends beyond the events themselves. To ensure inclusivity, Riverbound provides scholarships and mentorship opportunities for young women, particularly those from Indigenous and economically disadvantaged backgrounds. Our aim is to ensure that every woman, regardless of her circumstances, has the chance to participate and grow through these experiences.

To amplify the impact of these gatherings, we envision creating an online platform where participants can connect long after the events have ended. This platform hosts educational resources, event recordings, and opportunities for mentorship, allowing the lessons and connections forged by the river to ripple out into the wider world.

The impact of these efforts are profound. Women leave these events with new skills and experiences and the confidence to lead within their communities. They carry with them a renewed sense of environmental stewardship, ready to advocate for the rivers and ecosystems that connect us all. These gatherings break down barriers, empowering women to take up space in outdoor recreation and conservation, spaces that have historically excluded them.

But we can’t do this alone. To make this dream a reality, we are seeking support to fund the events, provide scholarships, and build the resources needed to sustain this global movement. Every contribution will help bring women to the river, where they learn, grow, and leave empowered to create change in their own communities.

This is more than a series of events; it is a global call to action. Join us in creating a world where women feel safe, strong, and inspired to lead on the water and beyond. Together, we can empower women to protect our rivers, our communities, and our future.

For information on this program or how you can become a sponsor, email us at info@riverboundoutreach.org