Everything you need to know about the inspiring Women’s Run by Plan B founder Dr. Harmeek Singh

For more information, follow @thewomensrun on Instagram and use the hashtag #RunforTomorrow.

Sport360 spoke to Dr. Harmeek Singh, founder of Plan B Group, to get the low down on this inspiring event.

Q. What is going to make Women’s Run 2024 such a special event?

The Women’s Run 2024 is truly a special event, focusing on building a strong community. This year, we’re raising the bar with increased participation from diverse nationalities, and we’ve partnered with various groups to enhance support leading up to the event. Our running partners, like At the Park, have been instrumental in offering training sessions every weekend, ensuring that women feel empowered to understand their fitness levels and take that crucial first step. This movement is about fostering inclusivity and growth, and we’re excited to see how far we can go together.

Q. How did the idea for the UAE’s largest women-only running event come to pass?

The idea isn’t just about me having this vision; it’s always been woven into the fabric of this incredible landscape. The UAE has long championed gender equality, even before it became a widespread movement. While the initiative didn’t start with the UAE Athletics Federation, I’ve ensured that we’re not limiting ourselves to just Dubai. We’re working on something much bigger—something without borders or boundaries.

This event has evolved into an annual celebration that people genuinely look forward to. And it’s not just about women anymore; men have also stepped up, becoming an essential support system. I see myself as just a torchbearer, a catalyst for this movement. This event doesn’t belong to me—it belongs to everyone.

Q. What can people taking part expect from this unique event?

I believe that everyone who takes part in this run feels a genuine sense of belonging. It’s more than just a race; it’s about experiencing true equality and coming together in celebration, with everyone joining hands and supporting one another. While it’s a moment to celebrate women, it’s also about showing how strong we are as a community when we stand together.

Last year, we brought together people from over 160 nationalities, and this year, we’re raising the bar even higher. It’s about creating a moment of freedom, joy, and unity. This is an event you don’t want to miss—it’s all about the wins, the gains, and the incredible journey we share together.

Q. How important is creating the sense of community for Women’s Run 2024?

The sense of community is absolutely vital because this isn’t just a run—it’s a movement. We’re creating something much bigger, with pop-up events happening almost every month, sometimes four to five events, bringing people together regularly. It’s not just about how many kilometers you run or how far you go. It’s about how much you’re contributing to building a platform that champions women supporting women, sharing knowledge, starting fresh, and focusing on every aspect of health—physical, mental, and emotional.

We’re making sure these important elements are highlighted, so it’s not just about the run; it’s about coming together and growing together. That’s why the sense of community is so important—it’s what gives everyone that genuine feeling of belonging.

Q. How does Women’s Run 2024 cater for all different levels of runners, from beginners to experts?

When anyone partners with us, it’s about joining a community, becoming part of a bigger circle. Even if you’re just starting, it’s the first step toward something you’ll truly enjoy being part of. It’s not just about the run; it’s about looking around and realising that if others can do it, so can you. It’s all about creating a starting point where everyone eventually reaches the same level, sharing that journey together.

Once you get into it, you’ll feel that sense of belonging and become an integral part of this platform. We’re not just about hosting events; we’re about building a space where everyone feels they belong and where everyone can grow together.

Q. Plan B run a number of events. Where does Women’s Run 2024 fit into your portfolio?

This isn’t just another event for us—it’s a passion-driven platform. The Women’s Run isn’t something we see from a business perspective; it’s something we genuinely believe in. That’s why, despite the many hurdles and challenges we’ve faced (and continue to face), we push through with unwavering determination. For us, it’s not just about meeting a demand; it’s about staying true to a vision we’re all deeply passionate about.

Q. How important is the support of Dubai Sports Council for Women’s Run 2024?

Support is incredibly important for an event like this, especially when you consider the vision of Dubai and the UAE for women-centric initiatives and gender equality. This platform is the largest of its kind in the region, and as it continues to grow, the backing of organisations like the Dubai Sports Council is essential. Their involvement helps us reach out to everyone who supports us, acting as a cornerstone of our efforts in the sports community.

The support from the Dubai Sports Council means so much—not just from a marketing standpoint, but also in fostering a sense of belonging. We’ve seen their genuine passion for this cause, and they’ve become equal partners in this journey. It’s crucial for them to see this event not just as a series of activities, but as a community platform that aligns with our shared vision.

Q. What did you want to achieve with Women’s Run?

We want to emphasise that this isn’t just about us organising an event; it’s about creating something for the entire community. This event truly belongs to everyone, and for it to thrive, we need to empower others to take up the baton as torch bearers. This year, we’re introducing more women-centric features, and we’re committed to breaking stereotypes. It’s vital for men to step forward and support platforms that uplift women.

As the chairman of the Women’s Run and the founder of Plan B Group, I strive to lead by example. I’m proud to be a man supporting a women-focused initiative. I’m also involved in the upcoming first GCC Menopause Summit on October 18 at the Museum of the Future.

Together, we can break down stereotypes and work toward a fair and equal society where everyone has a place. This vision aligns with the inspiring leadership we have in the UAE, and we’re committed to following that path.