Meet Leanne: Challenge 27 Mentor, motivator, and movement ally
For more than 30 years, Leanne Sklavenitis has dedicated her life to helping people feel strong and alive through movement. While being diagnosed with motor neurone disease (MND) in 2017 may have changed her journey, it did not take away her passion. Leanne’s unstoppable spirit proves that movement is about embracing every opportunity to keep pushing forward.
For Challenge 27, Leanne is bringing her inspiration, grit and contagious energy as the 27 Movements Challenge Mentor. She is here to show that no matter what, you can move. Whether you’re stepping, stretching, squatting or simply finding your own way to keep going. Leanne is here to show you that any movement leads to thriving, connection and a life lived fully.
We caught up with Leanne to learn more about her journey, why she is taking on Challenge 27 and how she is going to help her team move mountains, one movement at a time.
What inspired you to take part in Challenge 27?
Movement has been my passion for as long as I can remember. Working in the fitness industry for more than 30 years now, I’ve experienced firsthand the incredible physical and mental benefits it brings, and it’s a lifestyle I truly love. Even living with MND, I want to show that movement is always possible, no matter the odds. You can still move, still thrive, and still show up for yourself every day.
Has your connection to MND shaped your journey in any way?
MND has changed every part of my life, but it has also given me a new purpose. Through my journey with MND, I have a deeper drive to inspire others and to help people become the best version of themselves, no matter their challenges.
What drew you to take on 27 minutes as your challenge?
As a personal trainer, movement is in my DNA. I’ve always loved helping people move their bodies and feel stronger for it. That hasn’t changed. Even though I now use a wheelchair, can’t move my arms, and am non-verbal, movement still matters. Challenge 27 is my way of proving that there’s always a way to keep moving forward.
Why did becoming a Challenge Mentor feel like the right role for you?
I’ve spent years leading from the front, motivating crowds from stages around the world. Being a Challenge 27 Ambassador and Mentor gives me the opportunity to keep doing what I love. Inspiring people to push past limitations and find their strength. I’m truly grateful to be involved.
What’s one word that sums up how you feel being part of the Challenge 27 community?
Awesome!
What do you hope others take away from following your Challenge 27 journey?
I hope people feel more confident and empowered to move, in whatever way they can. I want them to feel part of a community that lifts each other up. And I want them to realise that movement, no matter how small, leads to better wellbeing and a more awesome life.
What kind of difference do you hope to make for those impacted by MND? Big, small, personal or collective?
I’ve lived with MND for more than eight years. Something I try not to take for granted, especially when most are given just 27 months. I want to show others what’s possible. That even in the face of MND, we can still thrive, still laugh, still connect and continue to live each day fully.
What would you say to someone who’s thinking about joining Challenge 27?
Do it! The benefits are huge. You’ll feel amazing for moving, you’ll connect with an incredible community and you’ll be making a real difference for people living with the beast that is MND. Every step, squat or lift counts. Together, we can move mountains!
Join Challenge 27 this September
This September, join Leanne and thousands of Australians taking part in Challenge 27. This is your chance to show the power of movement, not just for your physical wellbeing, but your mental wellbeing as well.
From 1–27 September, join Leanne’s team and take on 27 different movements across 27 days and show that no effort is too small when it comes to fighting MND. Whether you’re stretching, rolling, lifting, or adapting in your own way, you’ll be part of a powerful community proving that every movement matters.
Looking for a different way to Challenge 27? No problem. There is a team for everyone.
- Looking to achieve a big goal. Join Katrina Blowers and the 27-kilometre team.
- Time poor but still want to make a difference. Join Jack Riewoldt’s 27 minutes team.
Whatever you choose, you’ll be helping raise funds for vital MND research and standing alongside Australians living with this devastating disease.
This is your challenge. Your way.