Wilder Zapata, the Colombian entrepreneur behind the rapidly expanding fitness brand Action Black, has officially launched his campaign for the Colombian Senate.
Zapata formalized his candidacy with the backing of the Creemos party, a political movement led by the current Mayor of Medellín, Federico Gutiérrez. The businessman states that his transition from the private sector to politics is driven by a desire to apply his experience in entrepreneurship and job creation to public policy.
“Building a company and generating opportunities in real markets can contribute to debates that today seem disconnected from the economy,” Zapata said. His legislative platform focuses on labor reform, innovation, and the promotion of sports and the creative economy.
From reality TV to global business
Wilder Zapata’s public profile began in 2014 through his participation in a sports reality television show. In 2015, he founded Action Fitness in the popular neighborhoods of Medellín. The business model eventually evolved into Action Black, a brand that integrates neuroscience, technology, and entertainment into physical training.
The company has grown into a wellness ecosystem that includes sportswear (Action Wear), nutrition (Action Bar), and recovery centers.
According to the company, Action Black currently serves a community of 50,000 members and operates more than 100 locations, both active and in presale, across Colombia, Spain, Mexico, Brazil, and the United States.
Wilder Zapata’s Action Black creates over 1,000 direct jobs
The company generates over 1,000 direct jobs and maintains a business model based on total ownership of its venues rather than franchising, a strategy Zapata claims allows for strict quality control.
“We have demonstrated that it is possible to build a global brand from Colombia, create formal employment, and compete in demanding scenarios without losing identity,” Zapata stated.
As he enters the political race, his company continues an aggressive international expansion plan, with upcoming entries projected for markets in Portugal, China, France, and South Africa.