Two cities, one goal: Sport opens doors to understanding sustainability and AI

Wilo and the Milwaukee Bucks launch “Water Pioneers United” initiative

Dortmund/Milwaukee, WI. Wilo and the Milwaukee Bucks send a clear signal: With a joint transatlantic education programme, the water technology group and the NBA basketball team have directly introduced 100 young people to the importance of commitment to sustainability and future-oriented technological skills. The “Water Pioneers United” initiative took place in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, and Dortmund, in quick succession.

“With this initiative, we are showing how our Group strategy is reflected in our specific sponsorship commitments. We create spaces in which young people not only understand water stewardship, sustainability and future technologies, but also experience them. The transatlantic cooperation with the Milwaukee Bucks is an important building block for this,” says Oliver Hermes, President & Global CEO of the Wilo Group.

In Milwaukee, around 40 young people from the Silver Spring Neighborhood Center took part in a Bucks Jr. NBA Clinic. The participants then moved on to the Riveredge Nature Center, with the logistics, transport and catering organised by Wilo and the Bucks. There, they completed practical workshops on water conservation and sustainability, followed by a guided nature walk that illustrated ecological relationships.

Shortly afterwards, an all-day programme took place at the Anne-Frank-Gesamtschule in Dortmund with around 60 pupils. In cooperation with the Nordstadtliga street football initiative and accompanied by coach Paul Gudde, the day began with an intensive basketball training session. In three workshops on water stewardship, AI and career guidance, the young people addressed key issues for the future.

“It’s great to see how sport builds bridges – between countries, generations and lifestyles. Together with Wilo, we create programmes that empower young people, impart knowledge and promote responsibility. ‘Water Pioneers United’ is a strong example of this,” explains Matt Pazaras, Chief Business Development & Strategy Officer of the Milwaukee Bucks. The Wilo Group has been the team’s global sustainability partner since 2024.