Haley McGinest (Leimert Mountaineering)

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Overview

Haley McGinest is an emerging name in the field of mountaineering and entrepreneurship. She is one of the co-founders of Leimert Mountaineering, a Los Angeles-based company that specializes in outdoor apparel with a focus on Black cultural perspectives. The company is part of a new wave of socially-conscious outdoor gear brands that aim to reflect diverse identities and lifestyles. McGinest, alongside her partners, has gained recognition for their innovative designs that cater to a diverse outdoor community and contribute significantly to diversifying the outdoor experience.

Recent Developments

In recent years, Haley McGinest and Leimert Mountaineering have achieved several milestones that mark their growing influence in the outdoor industry:

  • April 2024: Leimert Mountaineering was recognized as one of the 16 emerging companies completing the REI Embark accelerator program, a three-month curriculum designed to support founders of color in the outdoor industry. This program included a $10,000 equity-free grant which facilitated business growth.
  • March 2024: The company contributed to the opening of a new REI store in Beaverton, Oregon, where they showcased their latest collection. This event provided the opportunity to connect with a broader customer base and share their commitment to diversifying outdoor pursuits.
  • 2023: The company launched its merchandise in REI's Tustin store as part of REI’s local brand buying program, aimed at supporting smaller companies.
  • 2023: Launched a partnership with Outlandish NYC, making their products available in Brooklyn, NY, extending their reach on the East Coast.

Personal Information

AttributeInformation
Full NameHaley McGinest
BornNot publicly available
NationalityAmerican
OccupationEntrepreneur, Mountaineer
Known ForCo-founder of Leimert Mountaineering
Net WorthNot publicly disclosed
EducationNot publicly available

Early Life and Education

Details about Haley McGinest’s early life and education are not widely available. However, her work suggests a passion for inclusivity in outdoor activities, which may stem from personal experiences or influences. The values at Leimert Mountaineering signal an upbringing that values diversity and community representation. Further specifics about her educational background and the formative influences that led her to pursue a career in outdoor apparel entrepreneurship remain undisclosed.

Career and Notable Achievements

McGinest’s career is closely tied to the establishment and growth of Leimert Mountaineering:

  • Co-founding Leimert Mountaineering: Alongside Ron Meade and Jabari Marshall, McGinest founded the company with the mission to offer performance outdoor gear that resonates with Black cultural identity.
  • REI Embark Program: Her leadership in the REI Embark Program marked a significant stepping stone, providing guidance and funding for early-stage ideas.
  • Innovative Product Offerings: The company is known for developing the WickLite Performance Do-Rag, among other culturally resonant gear, which has gained a unique place in the market.

Current Work and Impact

Currently, Haley McGinest continues to expand Leimert Mountaineering’s reach and impact. The brand not only creates culturally inspired outdoor gear but also promotes inclusivity and representation in the greater outdoor space. The company’s mission is to support and amplify voices of color in outdoor activities, striving to connect culture with technical outdoor pursuits. McGinest’s work has contributed to reshaping the outdoor apparel landscape to be more inclusive and reflective of diverse backgrounds.

Haley McGinest Leimert Mountaineering Height

Currently, there is no publicly available information about Haley McGinest's height. Personal attributes such as height and similar private details have not been prominently covered in public resources or media concerning her professional endeavors.

Haley McGinest Leimert Mountaineering Age

Similar to other personal details, specific information about Haley McGinest's age does not appear to be publicly accessible. Her focus in media has primarily centered around her role with Leimert Mountaineering and her contributions to the industry.

Conclusion

Haley McGinest represents a new generation of entrepreneurs committed to diversifying outdoor recreation. As a co-founder of Leimert Mountaineering, her influence extends beyond business practices to cultural impacts in the outdoor industry. By prioritizing inclusive representation, McGinest and her partners are paving the way for a broader audience to enjoy outdoor experiences while highlighting cultural identities that have traditionally been underrepresented. Her ongoing work promises to have a significant lasting impact on outdoor culture and entrepreneurship.

References

  1. Leimert Mountaineering LinkedIn Overview
  2. REI Embark Program and Leimert Mountaineering Participation
  3. LinkedIn Post by Jabari Marshall
  4. REI Path Ahead Ventures