Hi, nice to meet you!

Growing up, I was not fit or athletic whatsoever. I hated PE during high school and did everything I could to avoid participating. I still remember my PE teacher telling me, “You’re such a flower pot; you’re only standing there for decoration.” That was me. And I would lie if I said it didn’t make me feel bad about myself. Nearly 10 years later, the fact that I still remember it says enough.

But guess what? Back then, I thought I was beyond help. Years later, I learned just how much power beliefs hold. That comment stayed with me, but crossing the finish line of a marathon in 5 hours and 11 minutes, made me smile. It was a moment that proved change is possible when you decide to take control and commit to the process.

Along with other challenges I faced during my childhood, these experiences shaped the person I am today. Things didn’t change until one day, after many failed attempts already, I decided: enough is enough. I was tired of feeling exhausted all the time, tired of being insecure about my body, and tired of the regret I felt every time I ate something I “wasn’t supposed to.”

At 17, I joined the gym with no experience, no guidance, and only the internet to piece together exercises. It wasn’t just as simple as showing up—as you might know yourself, the journey is full of ups and downs. What kept me motivated was realizing that no one else was going to do this for me—it was entirely up to me.