The Retreat Where 100% of Participants Invite Their Co-workers.

Take The Lead is the first-ever running and outdoor industry retreat centering the experience of women and femme of color with the mission to validate, support, and lead the change they want to see in the running industry. Take The Lead was co-founded in 2022 by Alison Mariella Désir and Martha M. Garcia.

Our Impact

Since our founding in 2022, Take the Lead has served 223 industry professionals over our three annual retreats, including 49 brand representatives and 29 small business owners/consultants, in our most recent 2024 event. We've created a powerful space where 100% of participants would invite their co-workers to join our community.

Our retreat consistently delivers transformative experiences, with participants rating their experiences exceptionally high:

• 4.8/5 for feeling supported

• 4.9/5 for feeling validated

• 4.8/5 for feeling empowered

What Our Community Says

"As someone who has attended all three years of TTL, I always leave with so much optimism and energy to continue down my journey as a running industry leader. At this point, TTL has become one big space to catch up with so many of the incredible women I've met over the years. Thank you to all of those who make TTL happen!"

"I've never felt more supported than when I come to Take the Lead. It's a community I never knew I needed and one I now refuse to give up. I only find strength, connection, and empowerment here, and those are powerful qualities I take back to my daily life."

"The value in the connections, insights, and inspiration that come from being part of a space intentionally designed for us is unmatched. The work is never done, but together, we can all make a difference—both for the brands we work for and the world around us."

Looking Forward to 2025

Take the Lead is returning in 2025 with the continued mission to provide women and femme of color who work in the running and outdoor industry with career development programming, community building, and mentorship opportunities that center our experiences and identities.

This retreat is put on for us and by us. We know that by coming together, connecting in a safe space, and centering our experiences, we can lead the change we want to see in the industry.

This retreat is Women and Femme of Color focused, but all are welcome.