Welcome to The Ascend Diaries. This series is all about highlighting the women's running community in the build up to the Nike After Dark Syd race in September.

While this series follows the journey to the Nike After Dark Tour, it's about so much more than one race. Whether you're lining up on the start line in September or simply love running, you'll find stories, lessons, and conversations that will inspire every part of your own running journey.

This week we are honoured to introduce Femmi Community member, Brooke Stevens. Brooke is a runner who shares her journey of becoming stronger, both physically and mentally, through movement.

Brooke is a proud Māori who grew up in Aotearoa, New Zealand, and has been immersed in sports her entire life. Playing competitive basketball, volleyball, netball and more, Brooke's love for sport ...