Growing up in Kansas City, Sumaya’s early years were filled with sports like basketball and tennis, along with a strong interest in yoga. However, while attending university in Los Angeles, she discovered her true fitness passion: strength training. She became a certified personal trainer and grew passionate about empowering women to strength train to enhance their quality of life, safeguard against chronic illness, and promote mental well-being.

After receiving her Master’s in Public Diplomacy, she moved to the Washington D.C. area and joined Verve to help others strengthen their commitment to health and fitness. For next steps in her fitness journey, she plans to receive her prenatal and postpartum fitness specialist certification to optimize maternal fitness and safety.