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.