Our People

Our People

Ayana Haaruun

President

Ayana Haaruun is passionate about preserving jump rope as both art and sport. She founded Black Girls Jump because she wanted to engage in more social physical activity. A former college professor, Haaruun’s doctoral dissertation focused on using social media to enhance Black Women’s health. Haaruun holds an MFA in Mass Communication from Southern Illinois University and a B.A. in Black Politics from Howard University. Haaruun also launched the Street Ropez brand, resulting in partnerships with Family Dollar and Walmart, making double dutch jump ropes available in big box retail stores for the first time.

Dunmore

Fitness Expert

Saran Dunmore is a highly energetic fitness expert! She is a personal trainer and lifestyle coach. Saran is the Fit Club Coach for NBC 5-Chicago, giving tips on the most current health & fitness topics. She recently joined the Chicago White Sox for their "Impact Fitness" initiative, providing pre-game fitness tips. Saran was a trainer on MTV’s highly rated program, "I Used To Be Fat", from 2009 to 2012, which is currently airing internationally. Saran is a dynamic motivational speaker, having delivered numerous speaking engagements including the Keynote Address for the 2014 Chicago Women's Conference and Expo. Saran has hosted a myriad of events including The Chicago Music Awards in 2009 & 2010. She has been a passionate and engaged panelist, discussing health-related topics for various organizations.Saran is the author of ‘The Wagon Has Wheels’ and has created two fitness dvd’s; Fitness Party and Juba Step. Learn more about Saran at sarandunmore.com.

Natalie McKnight

Double Dutch Expert and Youth Program Administrator

Natalie McKnight might be the best
double dutch jumper in Chicago! A kindergarten teacher, poet, and actress, McKnight facilitates after school programs in recreation and nutrition. As a poet she’s graced the stages of theaters and open mic events throughout the Midwest. McKnight has shown off her double dutch skills in the theatrical production When God Made Woman. A graduate of Columbia College Chicago, McKnight is excited about teaching double dutch to youth.

Dr. Karla Robinson

Health Expert

Dr. Karla L. Robinson is a board-certified, licensed family physician. A native of Chicago, Illinois, Dr. Robinson completed her undergraduate studies at Xavier University of Louisiana. She went on to earn her medical degree from Rush Medical College and completed her residency training at Advocate Illinois Masonic Medical Center in Chicago, Illinois. Upon relocating with her family to Charlotte, North Carolina she has spent a number of years as a family physician in clinical practice. With a passion for educating the medically underserved, Dr. Robinson alongside her husband, serves as a regular health contributor to local and nationally televised talk shows such as TV One’s News One Now, online and national publications, various blogs and news outlets. Dr. Karla is also the co-host and producer of The Urban Housecall Radio Show, a weekly radio broadcast featuring information on the health issues most pressing in the urban community, celebrity interviews, and practical ways to make the best health and lifestyle choices. Co-author of the new release In Sickness and In Health, Dr. Karla Robinson enjoys lecturing about the health issues most pressing in the African American community, and encouraging others to become active participants in their healthcare.

Na-Tae Thompson

Organizational Development Expert

An excellent double dutch jumper, Na-Tae' Thompson serves as co-founder and co-executive director of True Star Foundation. Her vast work experience and passion for the betterment of young people have helped make True Star a growing leader in youth programming today. Thompson has created Teen & Hip Hop Clubs and established a host of teen programs for the Chicago Park District, including one of her proudest accomplishments, “Shades of You,” a program designed to empower young girls by helping them appreciate their individuality and boost their self-esteem. Her accolades include being named one of EBONY magazine’s “Young Leaders Under 30” and being honored with the Woman To Woman Award from former State Treasurer Judy Barr Tapinka. Thompson is a Columbia College Chicago graduate with a Masters in Arts & Youth Community Development and a Bachelor’s in Marketing and Management.

Interested in joining our team?