Lavinia Palanite, the unstoppable fitness sensation known by her fans as Activepanda, embodies resilience and transformation. From a small town in Romania, Lavinia’s life began in Câmpina, where she endured hardships that would shape her into the inspiring figure she is today. Her story is one of overcoming a challenging childhood, discovering a passion for fitness, and achieving global recognition—all while navigating profound personal struggles and setbacks.
Lavinia’s early years were shadowed by hardship. Growing up in poverty and a household marked by her father’s abuse, Lavinia faced a turbulent childhood. Her parents divorced when she was a toddler, and she was placed in her father’s custody, keeping her separated from her mother and isolated in a world of emotional trauma. Yet these early challenges would become the foundation for the inner strength that would later fuel her success.
In her early 20s, Lavinia was far from the powerhouse she is today. By her own admission, she was “lazy” and disconnected from any form of physical activity or fitness. But when heartbreak struck, it set off a transformative journey that would change her life. She turned to the gym, seeking an outlet for her pain, and under the guidance of a personal trainer, Lavinia began her fitness journey. Within six months, she had not only gained physical strength but also a deep love for the discipline and rigor of bodybuilding. “Fitness became my therapy,” she recalls. “It was the one place I could channel all my anger, all my frustration.” What started as an escape soon evolved into a lifelong passion, driving her to become a certified personal trainer.
Lavinia’s newfound passion didn’t stop there. Determined to push her limits, she moved to the United States to pursue bodybuilding professionally. Her journey of self-discovery also took her down a path of healing, where she turned to the teachings of Osho and developed a stronger, more balanced mindset.
In 2017, Lavinia met someone who would change her life—an intense relationship that became both a source of joy and heartache. This relationship brought her a sense of love and acceptance that she had longed for since childhood, but it also brought deep pain. Despite the complexities of their bond, this period was a crucial chapter in her journey of personal growth, teaching her about love, self-worth, and resilience.
By 2018, Lavinia was making waves in the bodybuilding world, competing in her first regional show. Her ambitions grew, and in 2020, she took part in Miss Fashion Global in Florida. In 2021, she reached another milestone as the 2nd runner-up at Miss Bikini US, cementing her status in the fitness and fashion industries. Modeling offers began pouring in, leading her to walk in fashion shows across Milan, Paris, and Dubai, and grace the covers of prestigious magazines. Yet, despite her rapid ascent to success, Lavinia was struggling internally.
Her personal life took a painful turn when her relationship ended amidst betrayal. This heartbreak, compounded by the physical and mental toll of her demanding career, led to a devastating miscarriage. Although her professional life was thriving, Lavinia found herself spiraling into a dark emotional space, struggling to reconcile her public image with the turmoil she was facing in private.
In 2022, Lavinia achieved what many in her field aspire to: winning her Pro Card at the World Championship in Miami. But rather than feeling elated, she found herself in the depths of depression. “I returned to Romania after my victory, but instead of joy, I felt a wave of sadness I had never known. My mind, body, and soul were finally allowing themselves to process the pain,” she shares. As she grappled with this newfound emotional awareness, she developed an eating disorder and was diagnosed with athletic amenorrhea, a condition that put her fertility at risk.
Lavinia’s journey didn’t end there. Her resilience pushed her to confront these challenges head-on. Despite her struggles, she continued to inspire her followers with her honesty, vulnerability, and unbreakable spirit. Today, Lavinia uses her platform as Activepanda to share her story, proving that true strength lies not only in physical achievements but in the courage to face one’s darkest moments and emerge stronger.
Her journey is a powerful reminder of the resilience of the human spirit, inspiring people around the world to pursue their passions, face their fears, and never give up.
