Strength, Resilience, and Self-Discovery in Sports: Inspiring Women

In a world where gender inequality and discrimination persist, it’s crucial to address these issues and provide a platform for discussion. Despite some progress in recent years, there’s still much work to be done, particularly in the realms of sports and wellness. As we commemorate International Women’s Day* on March 8, we’re excited to share the stories of five remarkable women from our Urban Sports Club community. From challenging stereotypes to fostering inclusive environments, these women exemplify strength, resilience, and self-discovery.

*On the occasion of International Women’s Day, we want to celebrate the entire FLINTA* community (women, lesbians, intersex, non-binary, trans, and agender individuals) with this article.

From Struggle to Strength: How Alex Empowers Women, One Lift at a Time

Alex Hipwell is a force to be reckoned with in the world of weight lifting. With determination and grit, she has shattered stereotypes and redefined what it means to be a woman in strength sports. Through her journey, Alex has not only embraced her own physical prowess but has also become a beacon of inspiration for others seeking to challenge societal norms and push their boundaries. With Liftingwomen, she empowers women to embrace their strength – one lift at a time.

What motivated you to delve into educating on sports topics related to women and establish your own community, Liftingwomen?

I have struggled to set and honor boundaries in my life, and this had a negative impact on my health and self-worth. I never wanted another woman to feel what I felt. Plus, there was such a lack of resources for women in sports. So I educated myself more and created a space that empowers women and gives them the tools to believe in their greatness by showing up for themselves.

“I never wanted another woman to feel what I felt.”

What role do you believe sports play in fostering a sense of empowerment and resilience?

Fitness is the foundation of Liftingwomen. A space where women lift each other up. We are proof that a community with strong values will impact and empower. “Those who lift together, rise together” Women tend to get distracted and lost in their head and forget that sport impacts our health positively and is not just for aesthetic purposes. Without our health, we are nothing. Coming together with Battle Cancer amplifies our message – it’s about moving not because we have to, but because we can, for a greater cause.

What challenges have you faced, and how have you overcome them?

For the majority of my career, I saw sports as a way of running away from something. Punishing myself for consuming excess calories or “bad” foods. For too long, women have viewed the need to implement sport as a way to disappear. To lose weight. It became my mission to empower women and give them the tools to flip the switch. Inside Liftingwomen, our motivation to move is to be strong. We all want to look good. But getting them to understand “what really matters” and becoming clear on their future self becomes the driving force for the decisions they make today. If I can impact just one woman, my job is done.

“For the majority of my career, I saw sports as a way of running away from something. It became my mission to empower women and give them the tools to flip the switch.” 

Who are the women that inspired you on your journey?

Serena Williams. In every aspect of her life. She does not settle, and nor do I. Her role as a mom is powerful. The team she has built is inspiring. Her mission to be the best is the type of black belt mentality I want to embrace. Madonna taught me as a young girl the power of self-expression, and Lori H has a big impact on my current self, inspiring me to level up.

If you could offer one piece of advice to the upcoming generation of women, what would it be?

Your period is your superpower – track, understand and embrace your unique hormone profile by investing in your health. Embrace all phases of your womanhood and ask for guidance along the way. What you do in your 20s will impact your 30s like pregnancy. What you do in your 30s will impact your 40s and 50s, like menopause. 

“Your period is your superpower. Track, understand and embrace your unique hormone profile by investing in your health.”

Helen’s Advocacy for Safer Spaces in Sports and Wellness

Helen Workneh, a dedicated yoga instructor and founder of the Diaspora Wellness Club, is driven by her mission to create safer spaces for the BIPoC community in yoga, wellness, and self-care. She firmly believes that yoga and wellness practices not only enhance physical health but also nurture mental and emotional wellbeing.

Was there a defining moment that inspired the establishment of the Diaspora Wellness Club and your transition to becoming a full-time yoga instructor?

I wanted to establish a platform to share my personal insights – a platform tailored to the unique needs of the BIPoC community in yoga, wellness, and self-care. This mission was further solidified after the tragic murder of George Floyd. Following his death, the BIPoC communities rallied together in a newfound solidarity, highlighting the pressing need for safer spaces, particularly in the realms of yoga and wellness. ROOTS, Black Canary, and Diaspora Wellness Club are just a few examples in Berlin that emerged during this period.

How do you manage to uphold your personal yoga practice while simultaneously teaching others and overseeing your business?

I don’t practice yoga because I want to, I practice because I need to. When I prioritize other aspects of my life over my practice, I immediately feel the negative repercussions – inner restlessness, sleep disturbances, heightened social media consumption, and a general sense of dissatisfaction.

“I don’t practice yoga because I want to, I practice because I need to. When I prioritize other aspects of my life over my practice, I immediately feel the negative repercussions”

What is your perspective on the role of yoga and wellness in fostering not only physical health but also mental and emotional wellbeing?

While yoga is often marketed as a physical activity in the Western world, its true essence transcends mere exercise – it encompasses our energetic, mental, and spiritual dimensions. Many individuals initially turn to yoga to alleviate physical ailments, shed excess weight, or combat sleep issues. However, they soon discover an unexpected benefit: a newfound sense of inner equilibrium.

What aspirations do you have for the future?

I aspire to cultivate a more diverse wellness landscape – one that not only boasts a greater representation of yoga instructors of color but also embraces cultural diversity holistically. Presently, wellness offerings tend to cater to a homogenous demographic, limiting accessibility and perpetuating narrow definitions of wellness. My vision is to create a wellness environment that accommodates diverse needs, celebrates cultural richness, and fosters inclusivity.

How would you define diverse wellness in practical terms?

Diverse wellness entails crafting offerings that cater to a spectrum of needs, spanning age, gender, culture, and background. Drawing from my own immigrant background, I understand the importance of accommodating varied cultural influences. By embracing diversity, we can establish a wellness paradigm that is truly “by the people, for the people” – inclusive and holistic in its approach.

Who are the women that inspired you?

My greatest sources of inspiration are migrant mothers – who not only nurtured us with boundless love and care but also bore the weight of low-paid labor and grappled with the challenges of navigating identity in foreign lands.

What advice would you impart to the next generation of women when it comes to wellbeing and personal growth?

Remember, less is often more, and genuine wellbeing transcends material possessions or fleeting trends. Whether it’s enjoying music by candlelight at home, savoring a homemade meal, or indulging in a spa day, prioritize experiences that resonate with your soul. Embrace the simple joys of life, cherish cultural heritage, and cultivate an authentic sense of self.

“Growing up amid multiple cultures is a gift. Embrace your roots with pride and explore how wellness manifests within your communities.”

The Versatility of a Woman: How Irina Masters 5 Roles with Strength

Confident, passionate, and inspiring – that’s Irina Gordijenko-Andrée. Embarking on a fascinating journey through various roles – from dancer to businesswoman to mother – Irina embodies the power of versatility in all its facets. As the founder of her own communities, she encourages people to embrace their sensuality through dance and overcome societal expectations.

Your career encompasses many roles. How do you manage these diverse tasks?

As a wife, mother, choreographer, CEO of @ixnproductions, and founder of @highheelsbyirinagordijenko, I see my diverse roles as fulfilling challenges that I love and live for. My husband plays an important role in this. He is not only my partner but also my business partner, and our family supports me in every way. Little spoiler: From May onwards, we will jointly open our first own dance studio for workshops and film productions.

Dancing, especially high heels dancing, is often stereotyped as very sexual. How do you empower people to express their sensuality without conforming to societal expectations?

I personally don’t care what others think of me. I do what brings me joy and fulfillment. Ever since I was a little girl, I’ve always wanted to perform and dance. For me, expressing my sensuality is just a part of it, and I love it when women are confident. In working with my students, I try to promote this self-confidence so that they feel comfortable in their own skin and can love themselves. It’s about teaching them to accept themselves and not be restricted by societal expectations.

“I personally don’t care what others think of me. I do what brings me joy and fulfillment. And that’s exactly what I encourage my students to do.”

How has motherhood influenced your perception of sensuality?

Of course, it can be frustrating when the pants no longer fit like they used to and the muscles are not in the same places. But apart from that, not much has changed. Instead, my self-love has become even stronger because I experienced something as wonderful as pregnancy. I am very proud of my body and what it accomplished during pregnancy and childbirth.

“After my pregnancy, my self-love has become even stronger. I am very proud of my body and what it has achieved.”

“Maintaining my own balance and wellbeing, I spend a lot of time with my baby. These moments are the most beautiful for me and bring me peace.”

Which women have inspired you on your journey?

My mom is my biggest inspiration. She constantly proves that she has everything under control, always giving her all without excuses and finding quick solutions to any challenges. Her ability to master everything encourages me to steadfastly pursue my own path and make the most of every situation. Love you mom!

If you could give advice to the next generation of women, what would it be?

Pursue your goals with passion, work hard, and believe firmly in yourself. Anything is possible as long as you are convinced of it. If you need a break, then take it. Spend time with friends and family because that is very important for your wellbeing. Remember, even machines require a break now and then (laughs). Love yourself, babes.

Naima Sowing Seeds of Belonging: A Journey of Community, Creativity, and Wellbeing

Naima is a passionate advocate for creating safer and more inclusive spaces for marginalized communities. As the co-founder of a non-profit organization dedicated to fostering belonging and connection, Naima embodies resilience and determination in her mission to empower others. Through her non-profit organization ROOTS, Naima has embarked on a journey to create spaces that celebrate community, promote healing, and cultivate joy.

Looking back on your journey, can you share a moment that sparked the idea for ROOTS and explain how the mix of creativity, movement, and knowledge-sharing came together?

Our NGO ROOTS was born from a collective longing among friends for more BIPoC community spaces, ones that fostered genuine connection and belonging. Starting with intimate soul circles focused on healing, we realized the desire to expand our offerings into collaborative creative sessions, cultivating joyful moments. Our aim was to break down barriers in creative and wellness/ wellbeing spaces, where BIPoC individuals often historically face exclusion. Since then, we’ve offered a diverse range of workshops and events, and the response has been incredibly rewarding.

How does this unique blend contribute in its own way to the overall wellbeing and empowerment of your community?

This blend is the core of who we are. We provide a platform that brings people together who face discrimination and racism – no matter where they’re at in life and explore new experiences and the possibility to tap into their emotions, whether it’s through singing, yoga, DJ workshops, painting sessions, dance, or self-defense. It’s like a playground for growth and discovery. Seeing participants genuinely excited as they dive into something new or make new connections makes me truly happy. That’s the real magic that keeps me going.

How has and still does sports and wellness play a significant part in shaping your very own wellbeing journey?

How has and still does sports and wellness play a significant part in shaping your very own wellbeing journey?
As a highly sensitive person, I often find myself overwhelmed, and fitness and wellness act as my balancing mechanism, helping me navigate stress, fears, and emotions. Prioritizing my wellbeing empowers me to cultivate a deeper connection between my body and mind, providing a sense of safety and control. It’s a journey of actively pursuing a healthier, more balanced version of myself.

“Prioritizing my wellbeing empowers me to cultivate a deeper connection between my body and mind, providing a sense of safety and control.”

Safer Spaces are a big focus for ROOTS. Can you highlight one success story within the ROOTS community?

While our annual impact measurement surveys affirm the positive impact of ROOTS, one particular remains etched in my memory. After a workshop, one participant approached me and said, “I moved to Berlin 7 years ago, and today is the first time I truly feel at home”. This yearning for a feeling of belonging shows the profound impact safer spaces can have on individuals’ lives.

Who are the women that inspired you on your journey?

Without a doubt, the women who have been my guiding lights are my mother and my grandmothers. Their strength, resilience, and unwavering support have shaped me in ways words can’t fully capture. My mother, with her boundless love and determination, showed me the power of kindness and perseverance. My grandmothers, each in her unique way, imparted wisdom, stories, and a profound sense of heritage. Their legacies form the foundation of my journey, inspiring me to navigate challenges with grace and courage.

If you could offer one piece of advice to the upcoming generation of women, what would it be?

Trust in yourself, all is inside of you and find your voice. Forge your path while ensuring you uplift others. Embrace intersectionality, acknowledge your privileges, and lead with empathy and curiosity. Remember, true empowerment lies in fostering connections, collectivity and amplifying underrepresented voices.

“Trust in yourself, all is inside of you and find your voice.”

Wie Tischa Stärke jenseits des Bodybuildings neu definiert

Tischa, known as “The Tigress,” embodies strength not just in physique but also in mindset. After ten years of professional competitive female bodybuilding and ranking 3rd in the world with the IFBB organization, she started working as a pro fitness trainer and in personal training. She created her own studio, Bodies by Tischa. Beyond the physical realm, bodybuilding has become a journey of self-discovery and empowerment for her. 

Beyond the physical aspects, how has bodybuilding influenced your mental and emotional strength?

Bodybuilding for me goes beyond just aesthetics. The discipline of weight training has empowered me as a woman to be self-confident and self-reliant. Being physically strong through weight training has given me the self-confidence, love, and respect for myself that I lacked when I was overweight.

How do you balance the pursuit of physical perfection in bodybuilding with the importance of self-love and acceptance?

For me, balancing the pursuit of physical perfection in bodybuilding with self-love involves appreciating your progress while recognizing that perfection is subjective. Embracing where I’m at in my journey, celebrating achievements, and prioritizing my overall wellbeing over external validation has always been of the utmost importance to me and key to cultivating a positive mindset to foster self-love alongside your fitness goals. 

“I like to challenge people’s preconceptions of how a woman should act and look. For me, bodybuilding has always been more of an art form rather than a sport.”

“When I perform, it is my way of showing the true beauty of the female body in its muscular form.”

Who are the women that inspired you on your journey? 

The two women that inspired me in my journey were Lenda Murray and Ernestine Sheppard.  Lenda Murray, was 8x Ms. Olympia female bodybuilding champion and the reason I decided to get into the sport of women’s bodybuilding. She was the first woman that made me aware that women can have muscle and be beautiful too. Ernestine Sheppard was another inspiration to me because she didn’t start weight training until her mid 60s and competed well into her 70s.  She was proof for me that it’s never too late to start building your body.

What advice would you give to individuals, especially women, who are interested in pursuing bodybuilding but might face societal judgments?

The best advice that I could give to someone, especially other women wanting to get into the sport, is to learn how to grow a thick skin so that people’s negative opinions won’t bother you.  Have the courage to be different from the masses. A muscular female is not a look for everyone and if one chooses to transform their physique they should be confident that it is the right choice for them, regardless of who may not agree.

“Learn how to grow a thick skin so that people’s negative opinions won’t bother you. Have the courage to be different from the masses.”