Shara Zaia is a first-generation Assyrian-American educator, writer,  producer, and community leader based in Denver, Colorado. With a decade-long education and program development background, Shara brings a deep commitment to justice, storytelling, and community building in every space she enters.

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Climbing has profoundly shaped Shara’s life, helping her confront impostor syndrome, build a healthier relationship with fear, and find a sense of belonging. After years of advocating for students as an early childhood educator, she transitioned her passion into the outdoor industry, where she now helps others experience the mental, physical, and emotional benefits of being outdoors.

 

As the Programs and Events Manager at the American Alpine Club, she organized national climbing events, built strategic partnerships, managed grants, produced films, and launched the Climb United Affiliate Support Network to support grassroots groups across the U.S.​

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Shara is the co-founder and President of Cruxing in Color, a Colorado-based 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to supporting climbers of color through free meetups, scholarships, and mentorship.

 

As a sponsored athlete and public speaker, she uses her platform to amplify different perspectives and inspire cultural pride. Her impact has been recognized nationally through features in Climbing Magazine, Alpinist Magazine, The Climbing Zine, Outdoor Prolink, and more. Shara is also producing Sharp Edges, a film that explores identity, belonging, and mental health in the Assyrian diaspora. 

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Whether she's organizing festivals, mentoring new climbers, or speaking on national panels, Shara’s mission is simple: to build spaces where people feel seen, valued, and free to be their full selves—on and off the wall.

 

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