Zimbabwe is so full of talented individuals, eager to learn, work hard and be the best versions of themselves. Unfortunately, for many school is a luxury they can't afford. That is why this charity really resonates with Viran and I - imagine if more kids could find a way to break the cycle. £30 can fund an entire year of schooling + meals for a child - that is less than the cost of a meal! Wouldn't that be a wonderful gift to give?

So why do this ultra challenge?

2021 marks the 20th anniversary of the death of my father, an awe-inspiring man who used education as a tool to uplift himself, his family and his community. Through grit and determination, he became the first of his family to attend university, move to London and start a glittering legal career. When he gave that up to take on responsibilities in Zimbabwe, most would have seen that as the end of the world, but his education and ambition afforded him the ability to become the first Asian lawyer in his city and a few years later, the first Asian partner - an admirable feat considering this was not too many years post-apartheid Rhodesia. 

As a result of his own experiences, he was a vocal advocate of education. This was evident in his interactions with the broader community, the values he shared with my sister and me, and eventually, in his leadership as Chairman of the Board of Governors of a new independent school, aimed at offering high quality education to a diverse range of students. 

Upon his untimely passing during the Comrades Ultra-Marathon, it was the gift of education in the form of scholarships, that gave my sister and me the opportunity to leave a version of Zimbabwe that was in economic turmoil, and forge new lives for ourselves. The same was true for Viran. 

That is why Viran and I are hoping to return the gift of education to these kids in memory of my dad.

Thanks for reading and thanks for your support!

Shaalz & Viran 

Not convinced? Watch this short clip which aired on BBC a few years ago:

https://zimbabweschildren.org/index.php/view-film-update/

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