Today we’d like to introduce you to Tiara Wright
Hi Tiara, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
Born and raised in Dayton, Ohio, I grew up with a love for sports, playing basketball and running track during my time at Vandalia-Butler High School. Yet, like many, I faced life’s challenges, and in 2020, a particularly difficult year became a turning point. That year, I experienced a miscarriage, a loss that changed me in many ways. In the midst of the grief, I discovered something unexpected—joy in fitness. Working with a personal trainer helped me develop a consistent workout routine, and over time, fitness turned into a passion that improved both my physical and mental well-being. In 2023, I discovered a love for outdoor running, which led me to complete my first 5k race, finishing in the top 10. This accomplishment fueled my desire to be part of a more consistent, diverse, and inclusive running community.
In June 2024, I founded Gem City Stride, a social running club in Dayton, Ohio, to provide a welcoming space for runners and walkers of all fitness levels. Our mission is to encourage everyone to get moving, regardless of experience, and to create a supportive environment where people can enjoy fitness together. We meet twice a week, on Tuesday evenings and Saturday mornings, and welcome families, pets, and individuals looking to improve their health while building community.
Since its launch, Gem City Stride has grown to over 500 members, creating an inclusive and vibrant community. Whether you’re a seasoned runner or just starting out, the club is all about fostering connections and celebrating the joy of movement. We believe that fitness is for everyone, and doing it together makes the journey even more rewarding.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
The journey hasn’t been smooth, but it also hasn’t been too difficult. One of the toughest aspects has been ensuring I’m marketing enough to keep engagement high. As we approach the winter months, I anticipate that maintaining participation will be a bigger challenge, but I’m ready to tackle it. I believe the Facebook group we’ve built will play a key role in keeping the momentum going through the colder season. Additionally, maintaining consistency in group attendance as our members’ schedules fluctuate, especially with busy personal lives or work commitments. Weather conditions, beyond just winter, can also be unpredictable, making it harder to plan runs. Lastly, keeping a diverse range of fitness levels engaged might require extra effort to ensure that both beginners and more experienced runners feel included and supported.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I am the Youth Program Manager at The Urban League of Greater Southwestern Ohio (ULGSO). In my role, I oversee youth workforce and entrepreneurship development programs aimed at equipping young people with the skills and knowledge needed for successful futures. I joined The Urban League in July 2021 and I am based at the Miami Valley Urban League office.
A Dayton native, I graduated from Vandalia-Butler High School and earned my Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Cincinnati. Outside of work, I enjoy fitness, watching Netflix, and making lasting memories with my children, Jayayr and Samara.
Can you tell us more about what you were like growing up?
Growing up, I was a bit of a tomboy, always gravitating toward sports and outdoor activities. Basketball and track became my main passions, and I ran track and played basketball throughout middle and high school. I was good in sports and did pretty okay in school. Coming from a two-parent household with four siblings and lots of cousins around, there was never a dull moment growing up. Personality wise, I have always been “The quiet one” in my friend group. Despite being surrounded by family, I wasn’t the most confident person, often feeling unsure of myself and the decisions that I made for myself. Sports gave me a space where I could escape those insecurities and push myself, even when I wasn’t feeling my best. I have always been someone that likes to succeed in everything they do. I am a bit of a perfectionist.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: gemcitystride_
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61561701974895
