Fill Your "Y" with JOY
Discover the incredible journey of embracing purpose and joy as I prepare to run in the Malibu Moves race, fueled by my passion for education and a commitment to empower the next generation.
I’m on a discovery process as I turn to and tune into self-care and joy as I prepare to run in the Malibu Moves race, merging my passion for running with my commitment to making a difference in education. This event is not just about the miles I will run; it’s a celebration of movement and wellness, and a wonderful opportunity to raise funds for the Malibu Education Foundation—an organization dedicated to empowering the next generation of learners.
Yesterday I signed up for the challenge to run my first half-marathon (19 days out) from the race as I came back from a recent trip to NIKE HQ inspired with a new challenge I wanted to set for my mind and body as I embraced an exciting next chapter. Today starts my preparation to participate in the Malibu Moves race—an event that celebrates movement, wellness, and our unique journeys. This race is particularly special to me, as it marks the first time I’m running for a cause that is deeply embedded in my heart—education. The proceeds from this race will go to the Malibu Education Foundation, an organization devoted to empowering the next generation.
If you know me, you know I always embrace exciting new challenges, constantly seeking opportunities to learn and grow both physically and mentally. I run with purpose, and while during COVID I “RUN FOR LIFE” to heal racing 9 times and becoming a two-time All American sprinter, this race has significance in my next chapter as I’m embarking on a transformative journey of self-care and joy.
Over the past year, I’ve had the incredible privilege of working with the Compton Unified School District. I’ve witnessed firsthand the transformative power of education. It has been an inspiring journey, one dedicated to changing students' lives and fostering a brighter future for our community. Education has always been key for me—not just as a career but as a passion. I truly believe that we can open doors and create opportunities for our young learners when we invest in their education.
As I lace up my running shoes for this race, I am not just running to complete a race; I am running to fundraise for a cause I believe in passionately. I see running as more than just exercise; it’s an act of self-care that nurtures my mind and body. It helps me maintain my overall wellness. When we take care of ourselves—physically, mentally, and emotionally—we enable ourselves to better serve and uplift others. Running allows me to bring my best self to each day.
This brings me to a question I often ponder: What is my “Y”? What drives me? My “Y” is my drive to serve. I am committed to building community and creating scalable change. Through my work, my city, and my relationships with friends and family, I strive to make the world a better place.
Yet, as we embark on our journeys, we must recognize that life can sometimes become overwhelming. We can find ourselves on a road to nowhere, stuck in a routine that lacks joy. That’s why I encourage all of you to take a moment, breathe, and reflect on how you can fill your “Y” with joy.
Life is too short not to embrace happiness in our time here. Recently, I embarked on a transformative journey during a trip to Portland for my mentor's retirement from Nike. I spent time hiking with her family, visiting the Nike HQ, and engaging with inspiring leaders. Their words resonated with me: life is a mosaic of moments, and what truly matters are the people we share it with. This experience reignited my passion and empowered me to sign up for this race.
Because during our journeys, finding joy can be as simple as transforming how we spend our time. In the past few weeks, I’ve dedicated myself to reconnecting with joy, focusing on my wellness, and pursuing activities that fulfill me—like running, playing the piano, and spending quality time with loved ones.
So I ask you: What fills your “Y” with joy? Each of us has the ability to find moments of happiness and uplift those around us.
As I prepare for the Malibu Moves race, I invite you to join me in supporting the Malibu Education Foundation. Any amount you can contribute—big or small—makes a difference and is deeply appreciated. Your support helps empower the next generation and strengthens our communities.
As we move forward, let’s fill our “Y” with joy - inspire change and create opportunities for those who need it most.