National Hispanic Heritage Month - Industry Leaders That Inspire Us - Allison Medina
Written byFor this feature, we had the chance to interview our very own Allison Medina. She discusses the importance of her family and heritage, starting her own running Instagram account, training for her first race, and more.
CAN YOU SHARE A BIT ABOUT YOUR BACKGROUND?
Hi, my name is Allison Medina! I was born and raised in Miami, Florida. I am the proud daughter of Hispanic immigrants. My mom is from Venezuela and my dad is from Cuba. Both sides of my family immigrated to Miami before I was born so I have been very lucky to grow up around all of them!
WHAT MAKES YOU MOST PROUD ABOUT YOUR HERITAGE?
What makes me the most proud about my heritage is how important family is to everyone. My normal was seeing my family once a week, living only a few neighborhoods down from my cousins, and always having a family member to celebrate. Growing up with such a big family, I never lacked unconditional love and support.
WHAT WOULD YOU SAY FIRST IGNITED YOUR PASSION FOR RUNNING?
I grew up as a competitive dancer so dance was always my way of staying healthy, both physically and mentally. Once I graduated college I was no longer part of a team. I wanted to find a way to stay active but also be part of a supportive community. I had seen on Instagram how large the running community in Miami and all over the country was so I immediately signed up for a 5k and began training. You definitely do not have to race to be a runner but I knew I enjoyed competing so I figured this was the best way for me to start! I only started running in January of 2023 and I can confidently say that running has given me so much, I will be forever grateful. 
HOW DID YOU BECOME INVOLVED IN THE LOCAL RUNNING COMMUNITY?
At the beginning of 2023 I started my running page on Instagram, @run.withallison, as a way to connect with local runners! It has turned into something even greater. Not only have I been able to meet and run with runners in Miami, but I have also connected with amazing runners/people outside of Miami. This page allows me to connect with runners all over the country and helps inspire others to begin their running journey.
HOW DO YOU SEE YOUR PRESENCE AS A LEADER IN THE RUNNING INDUSTRY INSPIRING AND EMPOWERING OTHERS FROM SIMILAR BACKGROUNDS?
I am using my platform as best I can to make running relatable. Many people don't run because they do not know how to start. A lot of the new runners I have connected with begin with comparing themselves to the elites or the runners making it out to races every weekend! As a newer runner, I have used my presence to emphasize the fact that anyone can be a runner and if you go on a run, you are a runner! Every runner is different from the next and that is the best part of running. It brings people from so many different backgrounds together.
