Building Futures in Africa 2027 – From Coast to Coast to Community

Fundraising Target: £6,000

I’m entering semi-retirement, but instead of slowing down, I want to use this next chapter to do something that genuinely matters.

In 2027, I’ll be travelling to Africa to volunteer on a community project focused on education and access to clean water. It’s a chance to step outside everyday life and contribute to work that genuinely helps people build better futures.

My first step towards this will be cycling the Coast to Coast (C2C) route in August 2026 — around 140 miles from Whitehaven to Sunderland. I won’t pretend it will be easy, but that’s partly the point. It’s about committing to something that takes effort and using it to raise both awareness and funds for what comes next.

The C2C is just the beginning of a wider fundraising journey towards my £6,000 target.

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My Journey in Steps

Step 1 – Semi-retirement (now)

I’m gradually reducing my working commitments to give myself the time to train, prepare properly, and focus on fundraising.

Step 2 – Coast to Coast Cycle Ride (August 2026)

A 140-mile ride across Northern England — my first big fundraising challenge and a personal test of endurance.

Step 3 – Fundraising & Preparation (2026–2027)

A mix of cycling challenges, fundraising efforts, and getting ready for the volunteer project.

Step 4 – Africa Volunteer Project (2027)

Working alongside local communities on projects supporting education, schools, and access to clean water.

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The £6,000 I’m hoping to raise will go towards supporting my involvement in the project and helping make the work possible on the ground.

More than anything, this is about trying to make the most of the time I now have — to do something useful, challenging, and hopefully worthwhile beyond myself.

If you’re able to donate, share the page, or just follow the journey, I really appreciate it. It all genuinely helps.

Together, small steps can turn into something much bigger.