The core mission of Melanin Fitness Nation is to connect businesses of color and allies in the fitness space. We strive to create a platform that will bring accessible resources, programs, and opportunities to all communities regardless of their background.
Not only do we provide access to coaches and clients for one-on-one relationship building, but also host competitions for masters athletes which can help them reach their competitive goals. Additionally, we provide grant information for those who are looking to enter the health and wellness area as well as spotlighting inspiring individuals doing work within their community.
In order to further our goal of bringing activities into underrepresented areas, Melanin Fitness Nation has partnered with other entities which share the same vision. We also partner with businesses that are keen on bringing programs into their area, helping to create a strong and vibrant community.
Ultimately, our mission is to support the health and wellness of everyone within the fitness space no matter how great or small their journey may be. Our purpose is to bring people together as one nation, promoting unity and understanding through fitness. With Melanin Fitness Nation, we strive to make an impact and leave a legacy that will last well beyond our time here.
Lesley Henderson, CEO of Seven21 Designs, has never been about business as usual. An entrepreneur from the start, she’s spent her career making good things better. With 15+ years of business experience under her belt, she launched Seven21 Designs to help aspiring business owners go from in-your-dreams to dream-come-true. The path from a great idea to a thriving enterprise is full of hurdles; Lesley’s wide-ranging consulting expertise and depth of knowledge has helped dozens of clients jump those hurdles and cross the finish line towards success.
Lesley is also the Founder, President, and Board Member of Melanin Fitness Nation, a fitness community and physical fitness education provider that supports healthy living and wellness for the Black community, by the Black community. MFN is committed to enriching the lives of everyone who joins their fitness family, supporting the community through healthier, longer, and more fulfilling lives.
A devoted Crossfitter herself, Lesley launched Melanin Crossfitters ( Currently; Melanin Fitness Nation) in 2016 to bring this rewarding fitness opportunity to her neighbors, friends, and wider community. Lesley’s Crossfit journey began on November 4, 2014, when, after topping the scale at 325 lbs, she decided to make the move towards a healthier life and never look back. MFN hosts regular fitness events, provides personally tailored training regimens, group classes, and more. After achieving her personal fitness goals, Lesley is deeply committed to helping others in her community pursue theirs. Lesley is Crossfit Level 1 Certified Coach, USA Weightlifting Level 1 Certified Coach, Presented at the Alabama State Association for Health, Physical Education, Recreation and Dance on Diabetes and Exercise and studied Exercise Science Pre-Physical Therapy at Auburn University in Montgomery, Alabama.
An avid writer, Lesley’s the published author of a book of poetry, and has been featured in regional press, including Voyage ATL, ( Coming soon) ShoutOut ATL. A native of Cincinnati, she’s called Atlanta home since 2014. She lives in Covington with her wife, Reese, and their fur baby, Milo. While Lesley stays busy as a three-business entrepreneur, she makes time for yoga, writing a second book, adding to her sneaker collection, hanging with friends and traveling to all-inclusive resorts with her wife, family, and friends.
Brian is a former D1 track athlete that fell in love with the weight room. Once he graduated college he knew he wanted to own a fitness facility, and so he started his own journey towards that goal.
Along the way, Brian coached multiple sports and athletes from youth to collegiate level. He has trained people for bodybuilding shows, armed services, CrossFit, and general health and wellness.
He is married with two children and has been a gym owner for 9 years.
He has been doing CrossFit since 2013 and enjoys the constant push !
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