An Interview with Nesterenko Daria

Intro

Nesterenko Daria’s journey into climbing is more than a story about sports — it’s about resilience, identity, and finding strength in the face of unimaginable challenges. Originally from Ukraine, Daria has not only risen to become a professional climber but has also carried the weight of representing her country during times of war. From her accidental start in a climbing gym to standing on international podiums, Daria’s perspective shows the heart of an athlete who climbs not only for herself, but also for her people.

Quick Facts

• Name: Nesterenko Daria
• From: Ukraine (currently living in Germany)
• Sport: Professional climbing
• Started climbing: 2017
• Specialty: Bouldering & lead climbing
• Three words to describe herself: Resilient, adventurous, unpredictable

Q&A

Q: Where are you from?

A: I am originally from Ukraine, the country I am very proud to call home. Due to russia’s invasion of Ukraine, I had to move to Germany.

Q: How has the war on Ukraine affected you?

A: The war has completely changed my life. russia took away my sense of who I was, forced me from my home, and separated me from my family, making me feel like I lost a part of myself. It deeply affected my mental and emotional well-being, and I still struggle with panic attacks triggered by loud noises or airplanes. I also lost my uncle in the war.

Q: What does representing the country of Ukraine mean to you?

A: For me, the Ukrainian people are a symbol of resilience, strength, and independence. They know their goals and fight to reach them. It is an honor for me to stand on the podium with the Ukrainian flag draped over my shoulders, showing the world that Ukrainians cannot be broken, and to remind everyone that the war is still ongoing.

Q: How long have you been climbing? How long have you been a pro climber? How did you get into climbing?

A: I had never done sports before 2017, when I accidentally walked into a climbing gym with my mom. I didn’t even know climbing existed, but the moment I tried it, I completely fell in love. Only two years later, I was standing at the start of my very first international competition.

Q: What brands are you sponsored by? Who would you like to be sponsored by, and why?

A: My friends and sponsors are Kleterretter, which makes skincare products, and Scarpa Ukraine for climbing shoes. If I could choose, I’d love to be sponsored by brands whose products and values I love — like The North Face for clothes, Adidas or Nike for sports gear, Red Bull for exciting adventures, and Black Diamond for climbing equipment. But honestly, I’m always open to interesting sponsorships.

Q: What gym is your home gym to train at?

A: I don’t have a regular gym right now, so I move between different climbing gyms. This keeps me motivated, prevents burnout, and allows me to try various bouldering styles.

Q: Where do you like to compete the most, and why?

A: I don’t really have a favourite city to compete in. Every city leaves a mark on my heart and its own set of scars. I’d love to go back to each one because they’re all beautiful in their own way, except for two competitions I regret — and I’m sure you can guess where they were.

Q: What climbing style do you prefer, and why?

A: I enjoy bouldering because of its variety; I don’t like monotony — I get bored quickly. As for styles, I used to love slabs, and my friends even called me the “Slab Queen.” I enjoy the control and body awareness it requires. It also teaches patience and careful movements. I also enjoyed interesting dynamic moves for a long time, but after experiencing a lot of stress, I became afraid of them again. Recently, however, I’ve grown to love overhangs and lead climbing.

Q: Who is your favorite climber to watch, and why?

A: Honestly, I don’t really watch competitions or other climbers. I mostly review my own training or competition videos to understand what I can improve and learn from my own experiences.

Q: What are your favorite climbing accolades you’ve accomplished, and why?

A: The competitions I appreciate most are the ones where I know I gave everything and left without any regrets. Those moments are rare, but unforgettable.

Q: Where would you want to travel and climb, and why?

A: I love going to Innsbruck — that city really inspires me. I’d also love to visit Mallorca to try deep-water solo, and Fontainebleau, since everyone keeps telling me it’s a must for someone who loves slabs like I do.

Q: If you were a rock hold, which one would you be, and why?

A: I’d say I’m like a crimp. At first, I might seem sharp, tough, or even a bit painful — something people don’t enjoy at the beginning. But like a crimp, I hold value in the right hands: I can give support, teach patience, and help you grow stronger. People who take the time to understand me often find something special, and just like with a crimp, the people who really get to know me often end up loving me the most.

Q: What celebrity would you want to meet one day, and why?

A: Honestly, I don’t really see a difference between celebrities and ordinary people — the only real difference is how many followers they have, and that doesn’t define them. I love talking to anyone who’s truly passionate about something — you can see it in their eyes. And if you ask me who the real influencers are? Definitely Ukrainian soldiers — risking their lives every day to keep Ukraine (and all of Europe) free, strong, and amazing.

Q: If you could be on any competition show, which one would you want to be on, and why?

A: I’ve wanted to take part in Ninja Warrior for many years. Since I was a child, I loved watching shows like that, and I’d say it’s been a childhood dream of mine to be part of it as a competitor.

Q: Best advice for kids who want to become professional climbers?

A: My advice for kids would be to start focusing on recovery from the very beginning, to prevent serious and long-lasting injuries. It’s important to learn about your body, understand its needs, and, most importantly, listen to them. Mental health is a crucial part of an athlete’s life, so it deserves a lot of attention. And always make sure to have fun during training and competitions — if you’re enjoying the moment, it means you’re in the right place at the right time.

Q: If you could describe yourself in three words, what would they be?

A: Resilient, adventurous, unpredictable.

Q: What is a fact about you that people would be surprised to know?

A: I’m not mean and I don’t bite — well, at least not strangers! You can come up and talk with me, and I’ll probably enjoy it. People are often surprised because when I’m relaxed and not smiling, I have what they call a “b**** face” — but don’t worry, it’s mostly just my serious resting face.