Thanks so much for taking the time to review my JustGiving page.

The profile picture above is super appropriate to tell the story of how and why I got involved with this cause. For those who don’t know that’s Gus on the right, Funsho in the middle and, well, me on the left. You can say Gus is pretty driven by fitness, and in particular running. About 5 years ago he began motivating me to take running seriously -  so I did. That photo was snapped at the 2011 Amsterdam Marathon a few minutes after both of us crossed the finish line – oh what a feeling. The gentleman standing in the middle is Funsho – who was born in Nigeria, and recently moved to Kenya. Funsho has really fueled my interest in the issues and opportunities throughout Africa. There isn’t a day that goes by I don’t pay extra attention to the culture, business and other aspects of African life simply because of him. AND NOW here we go - literally inspired by the people around me to bring it all together and run a marathon in Africa for an awesome cause.

 

Please have a look at Self Help Africa’s website to learn more… But in short - their goal is to empower rural Africa to achieve economic independence. 75% of the continent’s people depend on small-scale agriculture to make a living – Selp Help Africa devotes its energy and YOUR resources to the benefit of rural farming communities. They believe that is where the best opportunities lie to foster real and sustainable economic progress across sub-Saharan Africa. Their approach is mostly via rural micro financing, and other self enabling programs which allow farmers and individuals to amass responsibility and continue building upon their success. They believe this approach will create a more sustainable future for these communities –as the hard work and skills acquired along the way are critical to their ongoing success.

 

So – it’s really a great thing to try and make a difference, whatever the size – especially when it’s kinda easy and a lota FUN! A passion for running and a curious interest in Africa CAN actually provide opportunity to people that WILL make use of it. Gus, Funsho and all of you that participate are as much a part of this as I am – SO PLEASE TAKE PART!