What attendees are saying:

  • “I went in hopeful and left with a full heart and more connected with women and in business than I ever have in my professional life. I am both hopeful and committed to this idea to keep going. It is a much-needed breakthrough to truly be able to shift the tide for women of color."

    — Brand President

  • "Daily life in the larger world chips away at my self-image, confidence, life energy; this retreat fills me back up and provides a vision of what the sport I love could look like so I can keep on striving."

    — Running Coach

  • "I want to thank the panelists for your honesty, guidance, and demonstration of what a strong, persistent woman of color leader in the outdoor industry looks like. Their words of wisdom empower me to advocate for the future I want to see in my workplace."

    — Product Sustainability Analyst

  • "Take The Lead was something I didn't know I needed until I was there. The community, validation, support, warmth, and ease was exactly what I needed."

    — Brand Designer

  • "Take the Lead was a safe haven to share experiences and knowledge. It was a space to be uplifted and inspired, an instant sisterhood."

    — Run and Strength Coach

  • "This was the first time I saw a room full of other who looked like me. Take The Lead made me feel so seen and allowed me to connect with other incredible women in the industry. "

    — Senior Media Manager

  • "This event is so important to so many women in our industry. It provides a special space for us to be real, learn from one another, and gives us hope for the future."

    — Senior Manager, DEI

  • "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 in the world around us. I’m already looking forward to the next Take the Lead!"

    — Social Media Specialist

  • "Take the lead is ALWAYS a breath of fresh air. I have been able to form very meaningful connections!! It is important for WOC in the running industry to experience this retreat."

    — HR Administrator

  • "Be You" was an underlying theme during this conference and being in the presence of women who allowed you to just be you was amazing. We laughed, we learned, and we got to love on each other. "

    — Community Programs Director

  • “For as long as I've worked in the Running Industry, I have often been "the only" in most spaces. Attending the Take The Lead retreat breathed new life into my outlook for the future of BIPOC women in our industry. While we may go back to our respective homes and back to momentarily being "the only," we now know that we aren't alone. We have a support network and can advocate for each other and become a collective voice that can positively impact not only our industry, but the communities that we aim to serve."

    — Sales Director

  • "I have never experienced anything like this in my professional career."

    — VP of Product

  • “The Take the Lead event, which shines a spotlight on women of color in the running community, left a profound impact on me with its inspiring message and empowering representation. By showcasing the accomplishments and stories of these remarkable women, the event not only celebrated their achievements but also broke down barriers and defied stereotypes. Witnessing women of color excel in the running world, overcoming challenges and embracing their unique identities, served as a beacon of inspiration for all the women who attended. It ignited a sense of empowerment and motivation, reminding everyone that diversity and inclusivity are essential in fostering a truly vibrant and successful society. The event's emphasis on representation and highlighting the narratives of underrepresented voices sent a powerful message of encouragement - encouraging others to believe in their own potential and pursue their passions unapologetically. The Take the Lead event undoubtedly sparked a renewed sense of determination and drive within me as a bi-racial woman in the industry.”

    — Apparel Planner