A growing societal issue

Based on her studies and personal interest in well-being and vitality, she responds to a growing social issue: the feeling of unsafety in the dark, especially among women.

Instead of avoiding this problem, Jody chooses a different approach. With Run by Night, she creates a safe and positive environment in which people go running together in the evening hours. By centering shared exercise, a situation that many experience as unsafe is transformed into a moment of connection, movement, and trust.

Strong sense of community

What distinguishes the initiative is its accessibility and social strength. Especially in smaller villages in Zeeuws-Vlaanderen, where similar initiatives are often lacking, Run by Night offers an accessible way to be physically active while also building social connections. The group setting helps participants feel safer, while also creating a strong sense of community.

The growth of the community shows that there is a real need for initiatives like this. What started as an idea on social media has now grown into an active group, including in Axel, where more and more people come together to run in the dark. Participants not only experience greater safety, but also a stronger sense of connection with each other and their surroundings.

Impact on multiple levels

For Jody, the initiative is not only about sport, but about broader themes such as equality, trust, and social inclusion. By offering a simple, practical solution, she creates impact on multiple levels: physical, mental, and social.

Jody shows that a small idea can grow into a powerful response to a major societal problem.