August 5, 2024 – The moment we’ve all been waiting for has arrived as VCPM, Inc.’s Game Changers program proudly announces the opening of applications for its fifth annual cohort. This groundbreaking initiative continues to revolutionize the world of run coaching by fostering inclusivity, community, and expertise among Women of Color in the industry. Applications are open from August 5, 2024, through August 30, 2024, at 11:59 PM EST.
Since its inception in 2020, Game Changers has been dedicated to empowering Women of Color, helping them transition from passionate runners to certified run coaches to industry leaders. This year, we celebrate a significant milestone—the fifth round of our program. We are also thrilled to announce that Brooks Running is returning as our Presenting Sponsor for the third consecutive year. Their continued support underscores their commitment to inclusivity and innovation in the running community, allowing us to further empower Women of Color across the nation.
“Brooks is proud to support Game Changers in their mission to support Women of Color as experts and leaders in the running industry,” says Alaina Fuld, Senior Manager of Communications and Community Impact at Brooks Running. “As we enter our third year of partnership, we’re excited to see the program’s impact nationwide and within communities, and to continue working together to elevate these leaders.”
Aspiring coaches are invited to complete a written application by August 30, 2024, 11:59 PM EST. The selection process evaluates candidates’ responses to application questions, focusing on their community involvement, alignment with the program’s mission, and an unwavering passion to redefine the norms of run leadership.
“It’s amazing to see an initial idea of funding 5 Women of Color turn into a nationwide program that has now helped 80 women become certified run coaches.” Vanessa Peralta-Mitchell, the visionary founder of VCPM Inc.’s Game Changers, shared.
“With this milestone of our 5th round of Game Changers, we are ecstatic that the program continues to impact and transform lives through the power of coaching.”
Selected cohort members will benefit from a comprehensive program that includes the RRCA Level 1 Run Coach certification course on September 21-22, 2024. Following that, participants will engage in a Business Strategist component (October-December) and receive mentorship from fellow Women of Color run coaches (January-June 2025).
Yasmin Boakye, Game Changer coach from 2023, shared, “After falling in love with trail running and noticing the lack of inclusion in the off-road running scene, I knew that I wanted to create a space for black women to feel safe, seen, and valued in these beautiful outdoor spaces. Game Changers gave me the confidence, knowledge, and community support that I needed to start my own trail running club and coach five amazing women to finish their first trail 10k. The mentorship, accountability, and professional development have been matchless.”
For more information about the Game Changers program and to apply, please visit https://bit.ly/VCPMGameChangers24 . Connect with us on Instagram @vcpmitchell using the hashtag #GameChangers⚡. Learn about the program’s journey and impact on the website https://vcpm.com/game-changers.
About Game Changers:
Game Changers is a pioneering program by Vanessa C. Peralta-Mitchell (VCPM Inc.), dedicated to empowering Women of Color in the running coaching industry. By fostering a community of expertise, mentorship, and business strategy, Game Changers aims to create a more inclusive and representative coaching landscape. The program equips Women of Color with the tools, knowledge, and confidence to transform from runners to certified run coaches, reshaping the industry for the better.
About Brooks Running:
Brooks Running is a leading brand in the running industry, committed to innovation, inclusivity, and community impact. With a strong emphasis on championing diversity within the running community, Brooks Running partners with initiatives like Game Changers to amplify underrepresented voices and create lasting change.
