We can’t say enough great things about Octavia (they/them), who received the Positivity Award last week. Octavia is newer to the NPDC community, but not new to NP! They’re. enthusiasm is infectious, and they’re always down to work hard, have fun, and welcome newcomers to the group.. But enough from us. Get to know Octavia from this Q&A and find them (and the PA) at future workouts!
How, when and where were you introduced to November Project?
In 2018 a friend who I worked out with throughout started telling me about November Project San Diego. She said that it was a lively group of people that got together to workout early in the morning and she felt like I would fit in well because of how much energy I always had at our morning workouts. I was excited to learn about the group but kind of hesitant to join since I don’t like to run a lot. But she insured me that a lot of folks go at their own pace and I wouldn’t feel out of place. Coincidentally, I went to my first workout with NPSD on a PR day! But I loved it so much I kept going and the rest is history.
What do you remember about your first workout or thinking at/after your first workout?
At my first workout I remember other people cheering me on and encouraging me when I started to slow down. I remember thinking that I found my tribe because everyone was just as energetic and friendly as me.
What motivates you to keep you coming back?
I really can’t imagine a life without NP. Not participating in NP for one year during the pandemic was so hard and I was anxious to get back. I keep going back because it holds me accountable for staying active and I feel like I have a genuine community.
What does winning the Positivity Award mean and represent to you?
Winning the positivity awarded gave me a sense of validation. I always try to treat people the way I want to be treated and I can tell people appreciate that by receiving this award. It represents that in “just showing up” I was able to make a positive impact in other’s lives.
What’s your favorite DC restaurant and your go-to food?
I’m vegan. My favorite DC restaurant is Dodah’s in Mt. Rainer, they have delicious vegan soul food and deserts. My favorite go-to food is a pineapple banana ginger smoothie.
Describe for us your favorite November Project moment to date.
My favorite November Project moment was a day that involved partner workouts at NPSD. So I partnered with someone close to me who happened to be a very tall guy with a bright small and great attitude. We talked about our lives during the workout and pumped each other up. After the workout was over I found out his name was Brogan Graham and he was one of the founders of NP! That truly solidified my love for NP because I was able to see how genuine and passionate one of the founders were. I also saw that everyone is equal at NP no matter when you join or how high up the ranks you go.
Give us your running backstory. How’d you get involved with running?
I’ve played sports since elementary school so I love being active in general. It took me a while to identify as a runner or feel like that was also my thing. But once I started to get into 8 mile runs with other NPers on off days I felt more enthusiastic about running. After that I started to use running to fundraise for causes I cared about by participating in 5ks. I feel happy when I run with a partner, run for a cause, or run to celebrate an accomplishment.
What’s your top fashion tip for runners?
I suggest investing in a nice arm band phone case and over the head headphones. It’s a lot more fashionable and convenient than holding your phone in your hand or wearing tiny earbuds in your ear that keep falling out.
We are so glad you’re here, Octavia!!
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