Q&A with CNMI’s Woman of Excellence in Bodybuilding

CHRISTINA TUDELA

• First CNMI gold medal in bodybuilding (both male/female)
• First CNMI female athlete to place gold in bodybuilding in the Pacific Games

Q: Can you share a particularly memorable experience or achievement that you’re proud of?

A: I would definitely have to say what would be memorable for me is my win in the Pacific Games for bodybuilding. It is just such a masculine type of sport so being a woman and proving that we can do just as much to bring positive recognition to our islands is a great feat.

Q: In your opinion, what are some of the biggest challenges that women face globally today, and how can individuals and communities work together to overcome them?

A: Women tend to be undermined in general because many people still just view us as weaker, more at a disadvantage, less valued, and less capable. Despite the efforts of all the women pioneers in history, gender bias still very much exists in today’s world. We are still so constantly scrutinized and judged more than men are in many aspects.

I believe that individuals and communities should try to do more to be open-minded, understanding, and accepting. I think if everyone in general could just exhibit more compassion, and empathy, and establish positive connections before passing judgment, it could make an immense difference.

Q: Was there ever a time when you had to challenge societal norms and stereotypes?

A: I’ve personally experienced having to work and wear multiple hats—doing a lot more additional tasks out of my scope of work just to be barely recognized for my effort and role in driving a company to success. However, when it came time to make an important decision that would affect the future of the company, they [management] looked to hear the opinion of the man who was less qualified, less experienced, and barely even put in any time, effort, or energy to increase the business’ profit instead of looking to me for my input. In cases like those, I just learned to step away and go where I know I am valued and my efforts are recognized. There is no point in trying to overcome bias if the other party is unable to even grow, recognize their faults, are non-inclusive, and have no desire to change. Go where you’re celebrated—not where you’re tolerated.

Q: How can individuals, businesses, and governments create an environment where women can thrive?

A: I think it would be great if there were more organizations whose main goal is to provide opportunities for capacity-building in women, especially those who are mothers, if more women could be aided in building themselves up while acquiring more useful skills that would benefit the community as a whole.

Q: Can you share how mentorship has played a role in your own journey?

A: I don’t think I would be where I am today if it weren’t for the few individuals who went out of their way to help me grow, teach me what I needed to learn, and point me to additional resources to scaffold my learning and development.

Dee Clayton is a good example of a mentor who helped me strive to be better, motivated me even when I didn’t believe in myself, and inspired me to do and be better. She does so much for the community and I just hope to make a positive impact just like she has and continues to do.

I strive to be there for those who need guidance and assistance, especially those who are willing to make a change to improve themselves but don’t know where to start.

Q: Do you have plans to get more involved in the community?

A: I do see myself being more active in the community this year. In the previous years, I have been so immersed in my training for competitions but now I have decided that I will be more accessible to those who are looking to improve their lifestyle and health.

Q: On this International Women’s Day, what message or advice would you like to share with women and girls in the Marianas?

A: I would like to just tell all the girls and women reading this to pursue their dreams. Whatever it is that you are passionate about, do it. Establish a list of your goals, give yourself a timeline, get with people who will elevate you and support you throughout your plan, and most importantly—stick to it. Don’t give up. It’ll get hard but remember why you started, stay focused, work hard, and you will get there. (Nhorleen Bitco-Lilles)