Meet Mark Stephens, Paddle NI's Participation & Development Officer
We’re excited to welcome Mark Stephens to the Paddle NI team as our new Participation & Development Officer. With a background rooted in outdoor leadership and community engagement, Mark brings a wealth of experience—and a genuine passion for paddlesport.
Mark’s journey began in architecture, drawn by a creative interest in space, design, and conservation. But it wasn’t long before he realised his heart belonged outdoors, working directly with people. That shift led him to the Instructor Development Programme at Tollymore National Outdoor Centre, where he trained across multiple disciplines. Since then, he’s held instructional roles on both land and water, and most recently served as Regional Development Officer for Orienteering Ireland, managing national projects, coach education, and club development.
“I’ve spent so much of my life in and around the outdoors, especially on the water,” Mark says. “The chance to help more people experience that joy really appealed to me.”
Mark is a BCAB Advanced Sea Kayak Leader and a provider of Paddlesport Instructor and Leader awards. He’s coached everything from large school groups to one-to-one sessions, and has created inclusive programmes for underrepresented communities.
In his new role, Mark will be working to increase participation in paddlesport across Northern Ireland—supporting clubs and coaches, delivering projects, and ensuring access to paddling remains inclusive and engaging. He’s especially keen to connect with communities, understand their needs, and build tailored programmes that support both new paddlers and emerging leaders.
“I’m keen to work on initiatives that improve accessibility in paddlesport, particularly for young people and underrepresented communities,” he adds. “I’d also love to support coach development programmes to help strengthen the volunteer base and overall paddling community.”
Outside of work, Mark is a mountain runner, kitesurfer, climber, and keen photographer. Paddlesport has been a core part of his life since his time at Tollymore—and it runs in the family. His dad was a passionate sea kayaker who once paddled in Greenland with a group that built their own boats from scratch (he even missed his son’s birthday to be there!).
“One of my favourite places to paddle is Achill Island on the West Coast of Ireland,” Mark says. “Last time I was there, I spent time with basking sharks. I’d love to explore the fjords of Norway or paddle among icebergs in Greenland someday.”
Mark’s motivation is simple: helping people grow through outdoor experiences.
“Seeing someone’s confidence grow through outdoor experiences is incredibly rewarding. I believe everyone should have access to nature—and that outdoor sport can be a powerful tool for inclusion, wellbeing, and lifelong growth.”
Mark is keen to connect with clubs, paddlers, and partners—whether it’s over coffee, at events, or out on the water. You can reach him via email or phone, but he’s always happy to meet in person too.
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