MOB Annual Trailblazer Award Winners Announced

o   Recipients: Maine Association of New Americans and Maine Appalachian Trail Land Trust (#WeOutside Program)

The Outdoor Brand Collaboration of the Year Award was presented to the Maine Association of New Americans (MANA) and the Maine Appalachian Trail Land Trust (MATLT) for their #WeOutside program partnership. This initiative works to connect asylum-seeking youth and families to Maine’s outdoor spaces and foster a sense of belonging in conserved lands. With activities like birding, hiking, canoeing, mountain biking, skiing, and ice fishing, #WeOutside offers enriching outdoor experiences that support mental health, strengthen communities, and bridge cultural divides.

“The success of this program demonstrates the incredible power of partnership within the outdoor industry. It’s setting a new benchmark for inclusive outdoor programming in Maine,” shared Jenny Kordick, Executive Director of Maine Outdoor Brands. 

o   Recipient: Survue — founder Josh Fox

The Outdoor Innovation of the Year Award was given to Josh Fox, founder of Survue, for the AI-powered bike light and video camera designed to enhance cyclist safety. The device detects and monitors the proximity and movement of vehicles, automatically recording video when vehicles pass too closely. Survue is revolutionizing cyclist safety on Maine’s roads and trails, with national media attention and a successful Kickstarter launch earlier this year

“Technology and innovation have the power to make the outdoors safer and more accessible for everyone,” said Jenny Kordick, Executive Director of Maine Outdoor Brands. “Josh Fox and Survue are at the forefront of this movement, developing cutting-edge tools that enhance cyclist safety on our roads.”

o   Recipient: Pete Didisheim — Natural Resources Council of Maine 

The Outdoor Industry Leader of the Year Award was presented to Pete Didisheim of the Natural Resources Council of Maine for his outstanding leadership in securing the Maine Trails Bond. This $30 million bond, recently approved by voters in November, will fund trail expansions and improvements, increasing outdoor recreation opportunities, supporting local economies, and preserving Maine’s natural landscapes. Didisheim’s coalition-building efforts were critical to the success of this initiative. 

“Pete’s instrumental role in the successful passage of the Maine Trails Bond underscores his remarkable ability to unite diverse stakeholders and navigate the complexities of the legislative process in support of outdoor recreation,” shared Kordick.

o   Recipient: Carolann Ouellette — Director of Tourism, Film & Outdoor Recreation (previously the Director of the Office of Outdoor Recreation)

Carolann Ouellette was recognized for her influential leadership in establishing the Office of Outdoor Recreation and serving as its first Director for more than six years.

“It’s been a rewarding journey to help shape Maine’s outdoor recreation landscape. By fostering collaboration and innovation, we’ve made great strides in connecting people to Maine’s natural beauty, supporting local economies, and building a sustainable future for outdoor recreation in our state,” said Carolann Ouellette, who now serves as Director of Tourism, Film & Outdoor Recreation.