We are honored to name Sidney Baptista (@sidbap), founder and CEO of PYNRS (@pynrs_), as our Innovation Leader Award honoree for the BECMA Vanguard Awards. The Innovation Leader Award celebrates visionaries who are redefining what's possible through new ideas, technologies, and business models that drive inclusive growth. Sidney Baptista built PYNRS to close the wealth gap in the outdoor industry and prove that Black entrepreneurs can own, not just participate. Sidney Baptista left a Big Four accounting firm to build something that mattered. In 2017, he founded the Pioneers Run Crew (@pioneersrc) in Boston, creating space for a diverse running community in a sport that often feels exclusive. By 2020, major brands noticed. When brands offered sponsorships and partnerships, Baptista turned them down. He wanted creative control and community ownership. That decision led to PYNRS, a Black-owned running apparel company launched on his terms. PYNRS designs streetwear-inspired running gear with inclusive sizing and sustainable materials. For Baptista, the company is a vehicle for building generational wealth and closing income gaps that have kept Black entrepreneurs out of the outdoor industry. PYNRS joined REI Co-op's Path Ahead Ventures, gaining mentorship and funding to scale its impact. Join us on Tuesday, April 14, 2026, at The State Room to celebrate Sidney and honor industry pioneers across five award categories Tables available now: bit.ly/becmavanguardtickets (link in bio) Individual tickets on sale in March. #BECMAVanguardAwards #BECMA #Massachusetts #PYNRS #InnovationLeader