When Ladan Jahankha laces up her shoes and joins her local running group in St. John's, it is more than exercise — it is the fulfilment of a long-held dream. Jahankha, who moved to the city in 2022, said she was unable to pursue running openly in Iran where women face strict limits on participating in sport.
Finding running, finding freedom
Now working as a teacher in St. John's, Jahankha rediscovered the sport after meeting a colleague who ran and joining a runners' group she found on Facebook. A coach and a beginner group helped her restart the habit and build confidence.
"I'm so lucky to be here, to experience lots of things, that was my dream. But now I'm living my dreams here," she said. "And I'm so happy."
"But because of the situation, I couldn't do it. So, it was one of my dreams. So, I keep it in my heart."
Context: restrictions in Iran
Jahankha's story is framed by broader concerns about women's rights and sport in Iran. According to the Center for Human Rights in Iran, women athletes in Iran face strict dress codes to take part in public competitions and are prevented from participating in many sporting events. Media reports last December, including coverage by the BBC, said two marathon organisers were arrested for allowing women without hijabs to take part.
Those restrictions meant Jahankha, who first tried to start running in her 20s while living in Tehran, could not pursue the sport as she wished. In St. John's she has been able to join family members for races and prepare for upcoming events, including another 5-kilometre run on Aug. 16.
Local supports and small victories
Her path back into running has been shaped by everyday supports that are easy to overlook: a co-worker who runs, a Facebook group that connected her to a coach, and a community willing to welcome a beginner. That network has helped Jahankha move from tentative steps to regular races with her family.
- Arrival in St. John's: 2022
- Occupation: Teacher in St. John's
- Upcoming race: 5 km on Aug. 16
| Year | Event |
|---|---|
| 2022 | Moved to St. John's |
| 2026 | Preparing for a 5 km race on Aug. 16 |
Her experience underlines how local community sport can be an important site of integration for newcomers. Running groups, recreational clubs and volunteer coaches provide not only fitness but also social ties, mentorship and a sense of belonging — all of which are visible in Jahankha's account.
What the story means for St. John's
For a city that prides itself on neighbourliness and active community life, Jahankha's story is a reminder of the quiet ways people arrive, plant roots and find freedom here. It also brings into local view broader international issues about gender and access to sport. While the details of policy and enforcement abroad are complex, the effect on individuals is clear in Jahankha's words.
"I'm so lucky to be here," she said. Her voice — warm and grateful — carries the simple force of someone who has been able to translate longing into action. In a city with a long tradition of clubs, groups and volunteers, the welcome she received allowed a dream kept "in her heart" to become part of daily life.
This is the kind of small, human story that connects St. John's to far-off places while also reflecting the strengths of local community supports that make it possible for newcomers to thrive.
— Newfoundland and Labrador correspondent, WE NEWS
