Dove, Atleta Filipina join forces to tackle body insecurity in sports

For many athletes, the toughest battles aren't just fought on the court or field but within themselves. Global beauty brand Dove is amplifying the voices of Filipina athletes, shedding light on an often-overlooked struggle - the internal battle against body insecurity, the leading reason young girls quit sports.

Continuing its nearly seven-decade mission of uplifting women, Dove launched the "Invisible Game" campaign with a digital video featuring professional volleyball player Michelle Cobb, Philippine National Football Team member Inna Palacios, and former Philippine National Gymnastics Team athlete Sofia Gonzalez.

The video juxtaposes the physical strength and skill of these women with the silent battles they fight once they step off the court, a release said. It concludes with a call to action: "The game the crowd doesn't see is the toughest one to win. So when self-criticism drags us down, help us raise our arms."

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Moreover, the brand gathered over 60 Filipina athletes to share their personal battles with body insecurities. Each athlete posed with medals and trophies, symbolising their triumphs over their own "Invisible Games".

Recognising the importance of community in empowering young athletes, Dove has partnered with Atleta Filipina, an organisation dedicated to supporting and nurturing the next generation of Filipina sportswomen. Through initiatives such as interactive clinics and training sessions, Atleta Filipina creates a network where young athletes can uplift and support one another.

To mark International Women's Day, Dove and Atleta Filipina hosted an event at Spartans Boxing Club, bringing together young female athletes - including girls as young as four - to participate in StrongHER Together: Women's Empowerment Day.

"Dove is unwavering in its commitment to do the work in keeping every woman seen, heard, and celebrated - especially as we aim to uplift the Filipina athlete community by shedding light on an issue that has long since plagued our female athletes," Shantel Gruenberg, assistant brand manager for Dove Deos, said in the release.

"Our efforts will not end in March, and we see this as just the beginning of creating a better, stronger, more visible community of Filipina athletes in the future," added Gruenberg.

As part of their long-term commitment, Dove and Atleta Filipina are launching Atleta Filipina: She Speaks, a digital interview series that will showcase Filipina athletes' victories, struggles, and journeys. The series will feature guests such as Jia Morado and Denice Zamboanga, who will share candid conversations about overcoming challenges and pushing limits.

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