Genuine Climbing Empowering Women and Cancer Survivors

October 9, 2025

For many, climbing is a sport, but for some, it becomes a lifeline. Anyssa Lucena, founder of Genuine Climbing, knows that firsthand. Through outdoor retreats and guided experiences, her organization empowers women, particularly those affected by cancer, to reconnect with their strength, confidence, and community through climbing.

About the Author

Isabelle “Izzy” Conklin has always been born for storytelling; her parents even named her after a movie character! She studied Film and Television at Montclair State University, where she produced everything from San Francisco: On the Edge to the award-winning Arizona Stories: Border, Water and Politics.
Now, as a Production Administrator, Izzy keeps creative teams organized and shoots running smoothly, handling everything from prep to post. She’s all about making sure the details are covered so the big ideas can shine.
As a Jersey girl, Izzy’s especially excited to help tell stories rooted in her home state and she’s always down to jump in and bring a great idea to life.