ANNA JOHANNES, MBA, PLY

Meet Anna Johannes, a Paralympian, marketing strategist, and advocate for disability inclusion. With experience consulting for global brands, serving on nonprofit boards, and chairing committees that drive systemic change, she works to elevate authentic representation and inclusion. Through her leadership and storytelling, Anna is reshaping how the world embraces disability—pushing for a future where inclusion is the norm, not the exception.

MAKING IMPACT AT THE HIGHEST LEVEL

“One of my proudest achievements was contributing to the International Paralympic Committee’s WeThe15 campaign. It was one of the first opportunities I got to blend my lived experience as an Para athlete with my professional expertise, helping to shape a global campaign and movement for disability inclusion in sports and beyond. Being part of the campaign and interviewing IPC President Andrew Parsons about its impact was a full-circle moment—using my voice not just to compete, but to drive meaningful change.”

PARA SPORT INITIATIVES

“Successful initiatives in growing para sport include the integration of adaptive, disabled and Para sports into mainstream sports. For example, 14 of the NFL teams also have wheelchair football leagues and the rise of wheelchair basketball leagues, and demonstrations with the WNBA and NBA are powerful moves toward greater inclusivity. 

True disability inclusion requires deep allyship and a commitment to equity, focused on dismantling the systemic barriers that have long limited opportunities for athletes with disabilities.”

MISCONCEPTIONS IN PARA SPORT

“A common misconception is that there just aren’t that many athletes with disabilities.
In fact, 25% of Americans identify as having a disability, yet it is reported that 93% of women with disabilities are not involved in sport. It's not disability that holds athletes back, but rather the barriers and lack of opportunities.

These misconceptions prevent many talented athletes from accessing the opportunities they deserve.”

THE ROLE OF SPORTS ORGANISATIONS

“It’s up to federations to work together, both in non-disabled and disabled sports. Whether these sports are separate or integrated through combined leagues, the goal should be to elevate disabled sports more. While also raising awareness of Para and adaptive sport and invest in grassroots opportunities, helping to build a community that has been left behind for far too long.”

WHAT “LEVELLING THE FIELD” MEANS TO ANNA

“To me, 'Leveling the Field' means working in allyship to dismantle the barriers that impact all athletes. Disability should be integrated into every aspect of sport, ensuring a more inclusive and equal playing field for everyone to share, grow, and build better opportunities."

ANNA’S ADVICE

“No one else can define your journey or your success. Own your story fully, even the parts that feel messy or incomplete. Those are often the parts that make you unique and powerful!”

LEAVING A LEGACY

“I want to challenge outdated perceptions of disability while advocating for a sports industry that values all athletes, regardless of background, identity, or disability. 

Inclusion isn’t about meeting a quota—it’s about recognizing talent, innovation, and the power of diverse perspectives.

I hope to leave behind a sports world where every athlete is seen, heard, and given the opportunity to thrive.”