The Go Hard Girls Grants: Paying It Forward for Filipina Athletes

"Uplifting women’s sports means growing the space for more storytellers to make a difference."

Six years ago, Go Hard Girls founder Ceej Tantengco-Malolos was told to quit her advocacy. She had published a pioneering investigative report on the gender gap in the Philippines’ sports media, and was facing pressures from within the male-dominated industry. One person she saw as a mentor even told her: “Change won’t happen for your generation,” saying that focusing on female athletes would hurt her career. But she didn’t let those doubts stop her.

Instead, she launched the Go Hard Girls podcast, the Philippines' first sports show focused on Filipina athletes.

From crowdfunding their first season to earning recognition from the Society of Publishers in Asia Awards, Go Hard Girls has grown alongside the rise of women’s sports in the country. For the podcast’s 5th anniversary, the team is giving back through the Go Hard Girls Grants. With support from the Australian Broadcasting Corporation International Development and the Women in News and Sports (WINS) Initiative, these grants will empower 10 storytellers to tell the stories of underrated Filipina athletes.

"Go Hard Girls wouldn’t be here today if we hadn’t met people who believed in us. That’s why we’re paying it forward."

Grantees will receive production support, mentorship, promotional backing, and financial incentives. Whether you’re a journalist, content creator, or campus reporter, this is your chance to make a difference in women’s sports.