The Mira Rai Initiative
Runner and trailblazer Mira set the world on fire with her incredible trail performances. Now she’s set up a programme in Nepal aimed at training, educating and empowering more girls to find their potential
Words: Juliet McGrattan
Mira founded the Mira Rai Initiative (MRI) in 2017. She wanted to use her trail running success and new platform to give back to her community and promote trail running in Nepal, particularly for women.
She is the perfect role model to inspire and encourage young women to widen their horizons and follow their dreams. The MRI not only wants to give training and racing opportunities to young athletes but to educate them and help them develop leadership skills which they can use within their trail running communities.
Talent spotting
The MRI runs the Exchange and Empower (ENE) programme. It’s a collaboration with Hong Kong Trail Running Women. There are currently many more opportunities to train and race over long distances in Hong Kong than there are in Nepal. Each year, girls who are spotted to have high potential as trail runners are supported and funded through a ninemonth programme, during which they receive training, education and professional development.