Emirates marks milestone success of Wimbledon’s Championing Nature program at anniversary event | News

The All England Lawn Tennis Club has today published its Championing Nature One Year Report, revealing the significant impact of the program since its launch in May 2025 and celebrating the first anniversary of the program with a special celebration event at Wimbledon.

The report highlights that 28,539 people participated in 865 sessions and activities offered through the program last year, with 73% of participants coming from disadvantaged communities. The impact of participation has been significant, with 93% of those involved saying they felt inspired to take action for nature, and 91% reporting increased confidence that their individual actions can make a difference.

In recognition of these achievements, the All England Club welcomed young people and conservation leaders to Wimbledon for the anniversary event ‘Championing Nature: Game. Set. Grow’.

The day, held at the home of The Championships, brought together representatives from London Wildlife Trust, Birmingham and Black Country Wildlife Trust, Lancashire, Manchester and North Merseyside Wildlife Trust and Northumberland Wildlife Trust; program supporters from the All England Club and Emirates; and program participants from across Britain to celebrate the occasion.

The event was hosted by climate presenter Abbie Dewhurst and featured a keynote from naturalist, presenter and Championing Nature Ambassador Steve Backshall. Speaking about the importance of youth-led environmental action, Backshall highlighted the role the program plays in inspiring the next generation.

Steve Backshall later said: “Spending time in nature can completely change the way young people see the world and their place in it. What is so inspiring about Championing Nature is that young people are not only reconnecting with the environment, but also becoming leaders and advocates within their own communities. The passion, confidence and commitment we heard today gives me enormous optimism for the future.”

Championing Nature is a multi-year initiative between four Wildlife Trusts in London, Birmingham, Manchester and Newcastle, funding bespoke projects that help children, young people and families in disadvantaged communities access green spaces and develop stronger connections with nature. The multi-million pound program is made possible through the partnership between The All England Club and Emirates.

An important focus of the event ‘Championing Nature: Game. Set. Grow’ was to amplify the voices of young participants. Throughout the day, attendees shared personal stories of leadership, conservation and community action, reflecting on how the program has impacted their self-confidence, aspirations and connection to the natural environment in their local area.

Guests also heard from representatives from the All England Club and Emirates, who reflected on the success of the first year of the program and outlined ambitions for future growth. The discussions highlighted the importance of ensuring that access to nature remains inclusive and accessible to all communities.

Ulrika Hogberg, Head of Community Strategy at All England Lawn Tennis Club, said: “Championing Nature is about helping children, young people and families build a stronger connection with nature, regardless of their background or where they live. Over the past year we have seen first-hand how time spent in nature, alongside mentoring and local support, can make a real difference to confidence, wellbeing and future goals. We are incredibly proud of what the partner trust and the young people involved have achieved so far, and we are excited to the program will continue to grow in the coming years.”

Valerie Tan, Senior Vice President – Corporate Communications, CSR and Media Affairs at Emirates said: “Championing Nature is a powerful example of how we can work with partners like the All England Club and the Wildlife Trusts to go beyond sponsorship and create something with real purpose. It has been incredibly rewarding to see the program come to life over the past year, from hands-on experiences to permanent new spaces like the natural play area at Woodberry Wetlands. We are proud to support a program that opens up access to nature and provides meaningful opportunities creates in communities across Britain.”

The celebration also included a screening of the hero film Championing Nature, available here, and a behind-the-scenes tour of Wimbledon.

As Championing Nature enters its second year, the partnership aims to expand opportunities for young people to engage in conservation, outdoor education and environmental leadership in communities across the UK.