Raquel Ponce’s Journey of Empowerment Through Miami Fitwear

Written by Raquel Ponce When I started Miami Fitwear in 2015, I didn’t know that selling leggings from a suitcase would one day evolve into leading a brand that empowers thousands. My leadership journey began not in a boardroom, but in a yoga studio—frustrated by the lack of stylish, flattering, and inclusive workout apparel. I wanted to feel confident in what I wore, and when I couldn’t find it, I decided to create it. What started as a personal mission quickly transformed into a movement grounded in self-expression, confidence, and body positivity.

Rising from a Vision

I founded Miami Fitwear on three guiding principles: fitness apparel should make you feel good the moment you put it on, it should look good while being functional and comfortable, and—most importantly—it should give you the confidence to show up as your authentic self, no matter your size or shape. That vision gave me the drive to build this brand from scratch, turning my degree from the University of Texas at San Antonio and my entrepreneurial spirit into something tangible. Today, we’re more than leggings. We’re a community.

A Defining Challenge

One of the most pivotal moments in my leadership journey came early on, when I had to make the decision to move from hand-packing orders myself to overseeing a full production and team. Scaling a business while staying true to your core values is no small task. I’ve faced financial risk, burnout, and the pressure to conform to industry norms—but I stayed the course. That experience taught me that resilience and clarity of purpose are everything. You can grow without compromising who you are.

What I’ve Learned

Over the years, I’ve learned that leadership isn’t about having all the answers—it’s about listening, adapting, and staying deeply connected to your "why." I’ve made mistakes, but each one taught me something new. If you're an aspiring leader: start small, stay consistent, and don’t wait for permission. Whether it’s a suitcase full of leggings or a big idea that keeps you up at night—just start.

Leading With Heart

My leadership philosophy is simple: lead with authenticity and serve with purpose. I’m deeply involved in every aspect of Miami Fitwear, from fabric choices to photo shoots, because I believe great leadership is about being hands-on and heart-forward. That energy fuels our team. We’re a family here, and that sense of belonging shows up in every stitch of clothing we create.

Leadership isn’t a title. It’s the willingness to stand for something bigger than yourself. At Miami Fitwear, we’re not just creating activewear—we’re creating confidence, community, and a culture where everyone is welcome. Raquel Ponce

Founder, CEO, & Creative Director Miami Fitwear