Shirin Gerami - Trailblazing Triathlete & Advocate for Change who made history as Iran's first female triathlete to compete in a world championship.

Tough Girl Podcast

Shirin made history as Iran's first female triathlete to compete in a world championship.

On 15 September 2013, Shirin represented Iran at the triathlon championship in London, wearing full Islamic dress.

Growing up, Shirin discovered her love for movement through activities like yoga, swimming, and running. Her passion for sports blossomed further during her university years when she decided to pursue triathlon. Despite initial fears, she pushed through, embracing the challenge with determination.

After graduating from Durham University, where she studied Philosophy, Politics, and Economics, Shirin embarked on an internship with the United Nations. Throughout her academic and professional journey, she explored the complex interplay between human nature, societal expectations, and the realities of life.

Shirin's participation in the 2013 Triathlon World Championship in London garnered attention worldwide. Donning full Islamic dress, she defied stereotypes and inspired women everywhere to pursue their athletic dreams, regardless of cultural or societal barriers.

Beyond her athletic achievements, Shirin remains passionate about advocating for inclusivity and challenging societal norms. She actively engages in discussions about privilege, gender equality, and the importance of representation in sports.

Join us as we delve into Shirin's remarkable journey, exploring the intersections of athleticism, philosophy, and social change. Her story serves as a powerful reminder of the transformative power of sport in transcending boundaries and fostering empowerment.

Don't miss out on the opportunity to hear Shirin's final words of advice, as she shares her insights on resilience, determination, and the pursuit of one's passions.

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Show notes

• Who is Shiz
• Being based in London
• Not considering herself a tough girl
• Being born in Iran and moving around a lot in her early years
• Being introduced to yoga and the mountains
• Getting into running and swimming at school
• Getting into triathlon at university
• The pros and cons of moving so much when she was younger
• Being in the right environment to do sports
• The power of movement and nature
• How she defines being competitive
• Being involved with many societies at university
• Studying PPE (Philosophy, Politics and Economics) at Durham University
• Rowing at college
• College chat!
• Deciding it was now or never and getting into triathlon
• Feeling scared and pushing on through
• Graduating from Durham and doing an internship with the United Nations (UN)
• Wanting to ride a rickshaw in London
• Exploring what is human nature in her dissertation
• Being told it wasn’t a safe environment for girls
• How theory is different from reality
• Competing in a triathlon world championship in London 2013
• The connection between your body and mind
• Don’t take your privilege for granted
• Flying to Iran to speak with the Iranian
• Needing to dress modestly
• What should women wear?
• Being patronised while racing
• Paris Olympics and the restriction on French women wearing a hijab
• Being passionate about moving
• Stepping back from social media
• Final words of advice

Social Media

Instagram: @shiringeramitri