Our Mission:
At Soca Run Nation, we believe that health and wellness should be a vibrant and joyful experience, deeply connected to cultural heritage. As a 501(c)(3) non-profit, our mission is to use the pulsating energy of Caribbean culture to inspire generational health and wellness. Through the infectious rhythms of Soca music and the lively spirit of Carnival, we ignite a passion for physical activity and community engagement.
Our Founder’s Journey:
The story of Soca Run Nation began in 2017 when Troy, an avid runner, entrepreneur and dedicated father from Brooklyn, participated in the New Orleans Rock and Roll Half Marathon. As he looked around and noticed a lack of diversity among the runners, he wondered, "Why aren’t there more people that look like me at this race?" With over ten marathons and numerous races under his belt, Troy was driven by a desire to build a supportive and inclusive running community.
Merging his love for Carnival with his dedication to running, Troy founded Soca Run Nation. His vision was to create an event that celebrated African American and Caribbean culture while promoting fitness and wellness. In his first event at Prospect Park, over 500 runners and walkers came together, marking the beginning of a movement that would blend culture and health in a unique and inspiring way.
Our Signature Event: Soca Run Festival
The Soca Run Festival is more than just a race; it’s a celebration of culture and community. Our event embodies three simple yet powerful ideas:
Come: Join us to immerse yourself in the vibrant energy of Caribbean culture.
Walk/Run: Engage in a dynamic run that embraces the spirit of Carnival and promotes physical activity.
Fete: Celebrate with us in a lively festival featuring Soca music, dance, and community connection.
Our Impact:
Troy’s commitment to health and wellness extends beyond the festival. You might see him running through Brooklyn with his young daughter and son, embodying the healthy lifestyle he advocates. Soca Run Nation is dedicated to changing perceptions of health within our community by promoting basic physical activities and integrating cultural experiences into our wellness programs.
Our approach includes:
Educational Programs: Providing after-school activities that teach youth about healthy living, equipping them with tools to lead active lives and share these habits with their families.
Family Engagement: Encouraging parents to participate in run/walk activities with their children, fostering a lifestyle of wellness from an early age.
Community Building: Using Soca music and Carnival culture as a tool to unite people and inspire movement, bridging cultural divides and promoting a healthier, more connected community. Soca Run Nation provides opportunities for local small businesses and entrepreneurs to vend and share information at events.
Supporting Our Youth:
In addition to our events and programs, we are proud to offer two scholarships that reflect our commitment to empowering the next generation:
The Troy D. Johnson Commitment to Change Scholarship for children 18 and under is a powerful initiative designed to make a meaningful impact on the young lives of African American and Caribbean children in our community.
The Nuri Yemaya Johnson Future Leader Scholarship, is a scholarship designed to support and encourage young leaders who are making significant contributions to their communities. The Scholarship reflects on a commitment to nurturing the next generation of leaders, celebrating cultural heritage, and fostering a spirit of community and excellence.
Why We Need Your Support:
Soca Run Nation is transforming how our community experiences health and fitness. Your support helps us expand our programs, provide essential scholarships, and reach more families. By contributing, you’re not just supporting a running event; you’re investing in a movement that celebrates heritage, promotes wellness, and builds community.
Join us in our mission to energize health through the vibrant spirit of Soca and Carnival. Your support can make a difference in creating a healthier, more connected world.
Donate Today and Help Us Run Towards a Brighter, Healthier Future!