Someday, you will be proud of me
A young Nicole de la Cruz wrote this to her mother some years ago, with the hopes of making an impact and being the best in everything she does.
The current founder and CEO of Women’s Run PH and mom certainly committed to this vow. From a young age, she has already been active in competitions – MILO® and beyond, such as the Batang Pinoy and Palarong Pambansa – with the fervent support of her parents. She even animatedly adds that MILO® has always been a major part of hers and her siblings’ childhood, always making sure to line up before and during competitions to get their free cups.
But just as well, de la Cruz was open in sharing that she didn’t always have it easy. While her formative years proved strong, the momentum would easily be shattered as she grew up – because as much as she loved sports and enjoyed trying new ones, naysayers and doubters threatened to take her down.
Don’t bother with that longboard! You can’t do it! Hindi mo kaya ‘yan!
Unfortunately for them, they chose the wrong person to doubt. Her response? To grow even stronger. “When you say that I can't do something or when my abilities are doubted, the more I get challenged. The more I will prove you wrong [...] while loving what I do,” she shares.
This relentless pursuit to being the best and making herself and her family proud has led her to reach one new height after another. From breaking expectations at downhill longboarding, then a male-dominated sport; to being recognized by brands and sponsors left and right, to creating a platform from the ground up, de la Cruz is a testament as to how one can remain bulletproof from all doubt and discrimination.
She now spends her days spearheading Women’s Run PH, the very platform she started that aims to provide a safe space for women. Around the time she started, only 30% of women would join runs – and she was adamant on turning the tides.
“That's why I created Women's Run PH – I felt like, if I create a space for women, such as moms or those who think they can't do it because they feel intimidated, [I would be able to help them],” she reflects.
Nowadays, Women’s Run PH has taken on a life of its own, gathering women from all walks of life, all ages, and all fitness backgrounds to come together for a shared purpose: providing safety and comfort among one another. Beyond the camaraderie, Women’s Run PH also brings to the fore various advocacies, brought to life through the partnerships the group celebrates for every leg; including Women on Wheels, supporting women who use wheelchairs; as well as Alliance of Autism, who gave children with autism the opportunity to run and enjoy the running experience.
As for advice, dela Cruz urges everyone to face challenges head-on. She believes that rather than allowing challenges to drag oneself down, it should make one stronger instead.
“There’s no woman stronger than a woman empowered. When you empower yourself and tell yourself you can do it, ‘yun lang ‘yun – kaya mo na,” she concludes.
