Sonia Haboub isn’t here to fit in – she’s here to reshape what’s possible. As a PhD professor, global endurance athlete and CEO, she moves through the world with purpose and power. Her work spans countries and communities, blending academia, athletics and advocacy into a platform for radical empowerment.
Born into a multicultural family and raised by a trailblazing mother, Sonia learned early on that strength and softness could coexist. She’s competed in marathons and mountain races across more than 100 countries, represented diverse communities on global stages, and created initiatives that push the boundaries of sport and education. Through her platform The Global Runner Scholar, she invites others to rethink what’s possible when intellect and athleticism come together.
Where It All Began
Sonia’s journey is rooted in movement, not just on foot, but in mindset. Inspired by her mother’s strength and independence, Sonia grew up believing she could do anything. ‘From a very young age, I watched her gracefully balance motherhood with a high-level international career, showing me that strength and femininity are not opposites but deeply connected.’
This belief became her foundation. As the self-proclaimed ‘black sheep’ of a multicultural family, Sonia challenged expectations from the start. ‘We are leaders, visionaries and athletes. I have built my entire path on proving exactly that.’
We are leaders, visionaries and athletes.
I have built my entire path on proving exactly that.
From Local to Global
Sonia has lived, studied and raced in over 100 countries. Her platform, The Global Runner Scholar, reflects a life in motion – academically, athletically and spiritually. Whether running a mountain trail in Asia or mentoring students in Europe, she sees movement as a form of resistance and rebirth.
‘Competing in some of the most challenging races across the globe has pushed me beyond my limits and given me the confidence to lead from experience.’
She also co-founded Global Race Connect, SWARA and Nutripathos – initiatives that bring together wellness, cultural diplomacy and sport. ‘What we’ve created are spaces that uplift, connect and grow women’s presence in sport. They’re not just organisations – they’re ecosystems for empowerment.’
Doing It Her Way
As a woman in academia and sport, Sonia knows the burden of being underestimated. ‘Being both an academic and an athlete sometimes led people to question my ability to fully belong in either world.’
She’s faced requests to work for free ‘for visibility’, while male counterparts were compensated. But she didn’t wait for the system to catch up. ‘Instead of waiting for opportunities, I created my own by building The Global Runner Scholar – a platform that lets me lead authentically and empower others.’
A Culture, Not a Campaign
Sonia sees real momentum in women’s sport but stresses that progress must go deeper than surface-level representation.
‘We are finally stepping into our full potential, not just as athletes but as decision-makers. But our value goes beyond medals – it’s about changing culture.’
She highlights campaigns like This Girl Can and Nike’s Dream Crazier, but insists the biggest change will come when women are not just seen – but respected.
‘It’s time we stop expecting female athletes and content creators to work for exposure. What we do has value and it should be recognised.’
Redefining Influence
For Sonia, social media isn’t an add-on – it’s part of the work. And it should be treated as such.
‘We must stop treating our presence online as casual. Creating content, sharing knowledge, building community – this is real labour. And it deserves real respect.’
She sees a shift happening – toward raw, less polished, more relatable content. But the work behind it must be acknowledged. ‘We’re educating, inspiring and leading. That’s not a hobby –that’s a profession.’
Promoting women in sport is not just about increasing opportunities. It’s about giving dignity to what we already do, and what we’re continuing to build.
A Vision for the Future
Looking ahead, Sonia wants to see:
- Wider access for girls to participate in sport
- More women in leadership roles
- Equal investment in sponsorship, pay and media attention
- Cultural respect for the work women do on and off the pitch
For the women coming up… her advice? ‘Believe in your worth. Own your space. If the path doesn’t exist, build your own.’
‘You don’t have to prove your value – just live it. Be bold, be patient, and never let anyone convince you your dreams are too much.’
Women like Sonia are the voices changing the game – on and off the field.
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