Ladan Jahankha finds fulfillment in participating in her local running group, as it represents the realization of a long-held aspiration. Moving to St. John’s in 2022 was a pivotal step for Jahankha, who previously resided in Iran where women face significant limitations on engaging in sports activities.
Reflecting on her journey, Jahankha expressed gratitude for the opportunities she now experiences, emphasizing that living her dreams in her current environment brings her immense joy. The Center for Human Rights in Iran highlights the stringent dress codes imposed on Iranian female athletes for their involvement in public sporting events, underscoring the government’s restrictions on women’s participation in various sports activities.
Recent reports, including one from the BBC, shed light on the challenges faced by women in Iran, such as the arrest of marathon organizers for permitting women without hijabs to participate in races. Jahankha shared her past attempts to pursue running in Tehran during her 20s, which were hindered by the prevailing circumstances, leading her to cherish the dream in her heart.
Currently working as a teacher in St. John’s, Jahankha reignited her interest in running after connecting with a colleague who shares her passion for the sport. Joining a running group through Facebook enabled her to access coaching and camaraderie, with Jahankha noting the warm reception she received from fellow runners.
-
For 40 years, Iran banned women from soccer stadiums. This woman fought back
-
After deadly protests, more Iranian women choosing to defy hijab law despite the dangers
Amid ongoing tensions stemming from the United States-Iran conflict, Jahankha highlighted how running has become a coping mechanism, aiding in stress reduction and anxiety management. She emphasized the integration of running into her daily routine, underscoring the newfound significance the activity holds in her life.
Having recently participated in a Pride race alongside her husband and daughter, Jahankha looks forward to another 5-kilometer race scheduled for Aug. 16. Expressing gratitude for the opportunities Canada offers, Jahankha acknowledged the limitations and challenges she faced in her home country, emphasizing the newfound sense of freedom and happiness she experiences in her current environment.
Download our free CBC News app to sign up for push alerts for CBC Newfoundland and Labrador. Sign up for our daily headlines newsletter here. Click <a href="https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/newfoundland-labrador" target="_blank
