The second annual AL DÍA 40 Under Forty event will serve to highlight and showcase some of the most diverse and impactful young professionals across the Philadelphia region.

At the event, taking place on August 27, 2021, Elaine Johnson will be one of the 40 honorees. She is the Founder & Executive Director of Latinas in Motion. 

Elaine Johnson is an entrepreneur, founder and executive director of two businesses: Latinas in Motion and Mogul Mami. Latinas in Motion was founded in 2012, and is a nonprofit that was created to foster a community of women living a healthy lifestyle through encouragement, inspiration and empowerment. Mogul Mami is an all-encompassing brand, which serves a platform for her numerous entrepreneurial endeavors, which includes coaching, public speaking and the sale of her goal-defining planner. 

Prior to entering into the world of entrepreneurship, Johnson worked nearly six years for the School District of Philadelphia.

Johnson is a graduate of Bloomsburg University of Pennsylvania, earning a bachelor’s degree in communication studies, before obtaining her master’s in higher education and higher education administration from Drexel University. 

Here are Elaine Johnson's responses: 

The biggest challenge I’ve faced in my professional career has been staying true to myself and staying authentic in my work. In today’s society, it’s easy to get caught up with trends and compare yourself to other “successful” people. What I’ve learned is that my truth and my authenticity is my secret sauce to success. The minute I try to duplicate someone else or follow a different trend – I am straying away from my God given purpose. 

I remind myself daily - that my purpose is directly connected to serving others. I continue to do the internal work I need to do – to stay authentic, true and honest in everything I do. In the words of Etta Turner, “In a world where you can be anything, be yourself.”

In order for diversity, equity and inclusion to be improved in the running world, women of color must be given a seat at the table. When we consider the running community, there is an apparent lack of diversity in the field. We can inspire change by redefining industry leadership. We can change the narrative by being intentional on providing access and funding to diverse run communities and programming. 

Being a leader means having great vision, compassion, excellent communications skills and grit. I believe a great leader can see a vision, communicate the vision and rally others to believe in that vision. Leadership is hard and sometimes lonely but deeply fulfilling. 

In five years, I want to grow Latinas in Motion to various chapters across the world. I want to implement programs for young girls of color to learn the importance of wellness and exercise. I want to travel the world, speaking to various audiences and sharing my story about resilience, purpose and joy. 

Most importantly, I want to remain true and authentic to what God has called me to do. I will continue to be a fulfilled entrepreneur, wife and mother.