Dr. Santia Barnes, celebrated for her trailblazing achievements as a professional football player and her influential social media presence reaching nearly 3 million followers, has forged an extraordinary path from collegiate track and field athlete to being offered the largest contract in women’s football history. Born in Greenville, SC, raised in Houston, TX, and now residing in Atlanta, GA, her journey reflects a relentless commitment to breaking barriers and redefining what is possible for athletes.

Santia’s entrepreneurial spirit shines as brightly as her athletic accomplishments. She is the founder of TRONUS, a groundbreaking footwear brand that made her the first female athlete to own a shoe company. Since its launch in 2020, TRONUS achieved record-breaking sales and secured celebrity endorsements, even amid a global pandemic. In addition to her business success, Santia is a two-time bestselling author and a highly sought-after public speaker, inspiring audiences around the world.

In 2023, Santia received the prestigious Icon Award from the Sovereign Wealth Fund Institute, recognizing her impact on leadership, innovation, and community influence. She further cemented her legacy on June 1, 2024, when she was awarded an honorary doctorate in sports management from Harvest Christian University.

Beyond competition and business, Santia is deeply committed to empowering athletes beyond the field. She is a leading advocate for athlete mental health and provides education and tools that help athletes build personal brands, secure Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) deals, and prepare for long-term success after sports.

This mission led to the creation of Winning Your Way, a modern athlete development and NIL education platform designed to help athletes and their families build visibility, create economic opportunities, and turn athletic talent into sustainable businesses. Winning Your Way supports athletes across all sports, divisions, and stages of development by teaching them how to position themselves strategically in today’s evolving sports and media landscape.

Dr. Santia Barnes multifaceted career and unwavering dedication to athlete empowerment continue to inspire athletes, parents, and entrepreneurs alike. Her story is a testament to resilience, innovation, and leadership. Through Winning Your Way, she is building a new pathway for athletes to gain control of their futures, on and off the field.