I’m fundraising for The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award

I'm taking part in the Manchester Half Marathon 2025 to raise vital funds for the DofE charity, which helps transform the lives of young people through The Duke of Edinburgh's Award.

Raising money for the DofE is incredibly important to me because the award has had a huge impact on my life. It has allowed me to build confidence, and it encouraged me to spend more time outdoors - which is something that became especially important after the COVID-19 pandemic. The DofE gave me a sense of purpose and something meaningful to work towards, which had a massive positive effect on my mental health. 

During my DofE journey, I have been fortunate enough to receive financial support from the DofE, which helped me register for the award and to purchase essential equipment, such as camping gear. Without that support, I may not have had the opportunity to take part. 

I'm currently a DofE Youth Ambassador (2025-2026), and I have completed my Bronze and Silver Awards. I'm now working on my Gold. I found out about the half marathon through the Youth Ambassador programme, and I saw it as  perfect way to give back - while taking on a personal challenge. 

Although I don't have any formal running experience, I've done countless hikes (many of which are across the rough terrain of Dartmoor), and I have completed the training for Ten Tors. I'm very confident I can cover the distance by walking, and now I'm training to run it. 

I hope you'll support me on this journey and consider donating to help more young people benefit from the DofE, just like I did.