GIRLS' EMPOWERMENT: 3 DAYS, 3 HALF MARATHONS

‘Keep going’ - Two words from a man holding a shotgun in the car behind me, protecting me as I ran through the Serengeti a few years back. Two words that were not only encouraging at the time but that I have used to pick myself up on many a bad day over the past few years.

Running has always been my exercise of choice, but it also became a tool that saved me when life as I knew it fell apart. No matter how down I was or how much sleep I’d had- even in my darkest hours- I would still manage to pull myself out of bed and go for a run. Sometimes it was the only thing I would do on those days. Because besides from the obvious job of keeping my body fit, running is one of the only things that helps me find clarity and stabilises my mind when it takes a downward turn. 

So when I saw that Singita (one of my favorite ecotourism and conservation groups) was bringing together women from around the world to run 3 half marathons back to back through the stunning plains of Africa, raising money for the Grumeti fund (A non-profit organization contributing to the conservation of the Serengeti ecosystem), I signed up immediately! Combining travel, running and philanthropy into one trip is an absolute dream and brings purpose to an otherwise selfish act. Post signing up, I've also managed to rally my friend Veronika to come with me- which is a challenge within itself- as although I like to think I’m pretty fit, Vee is an athlete, so I have no choice but to step up my game now!

Asking people for money has never been easy for me but this time, not only am I challenging myself physically, I’m stepping out of my comfort zone and asking for your help. In return, I will take you on a journey through the stunning plains of Africa, on foot, on Instagram, and you can watch me pant and sweat like crazy while Vee no doubt runs next to me like a graceful gazelle pulled together and dry!

If that’s not worth donating for, I don’t know what is :)

The foundation of a quality education is something a lot of us take for granted and is sadly something that very few of us are given access to, especially women and especially women in 3rd world countries. So I’m proud to say that this particular fundraiser is going to The Grumeti Funds 'Girls' Empowerment' program and includes mentorship programs, education scholarships and also provides the girls with a year's worth of sanitary pads. Another thing most of us women take for granted. During our trip, we will also visit the schools where this money will be donated, so you can see firsthand where it’s going. 

Together Veronika and I have pledged to raise at least $30.000 USD, and with your help, I know we can do it!

So, if you can spare $20, $200 or $2000, Vee and I (and the girls in Africa) would greatly appreciate it.

Thanking you in advance,

Mark October 31st in your calendars,

Aaaaaaaand…. 

See you in Africa! xx