"You're doing it again??"

You read that right. This year, we're cycling from Paris to Madrid. 

Over the Pyrenees. In the peak of summer. No rest days. 

Clearly, I have the memory of a goldfish! Or I'm a sucker for punishment? In reality I want to prove that your regular, average fitness woman (that's me) has the stamina and endurance to complete a ride of such magnitude. Only 2 women will attempt the Tour this year. That's double from last year, so we're already winning.

My own personal goal is very fitting to the Plan International project we're raising funds for. Following on from last year's successful project in Teresina, Brazil, Plan International will continue to support boys and girls to effectively challenge social norms and encourage support for gender equality and girls’ rights in their communities.

Gender Equality in Brazil 
Whilst laws have been passed to increase gender equality in Brazil,  gender inequality remains deeply entrenched in Brazilian society and prevents girls from realising their rights. 

In Brazil, like so many countries, the impact of gender inequality manifests itself in a number of
ways, from wage inequality and unequal distribution of household chores, through to child marriage, child pregnancy, and domestic violence. 

A lack of power as a result of gender inequality is one of the main barriers that prevent girls and young women from realising their rights and escaping cycles of poverty. Equality of opportunity in health, education and in the workforce is needed to enable girls to become active citizens; contributing powerfully, as mothers and teachers, as civic and business leaders, to their families and communities.

Project Overview

Plan International work with 10 communities in Teresina, Brazil. We support boys and girls to challenge social norms and champion gender equality and girls’ rights in their communities. 

Football, proven to successfully engage young people on gender equality issues, will be used to mobilise, train and transform boys and girls’ attitudes, behaviours and practices around gender equality. 

Our vision is a world that values girls, promotes their rights and ends
injustice. We cannot achieve this without working with boys and young men to change attitudes and behaviours. 

I was humbled by last year's contributions and hope that this year is no
different. I for one, will put my foot to the pedal and give it all I have!

Thanks for taking the time to read this far.

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