I'm taking part in The Paul Lowe Challenge on September 26 and 27, 2026, and I'd love your support. Before I describe MY CHALLENGE below, here are more details about the fundraiser and its impact.

THE DATE - On the weekend of 26–27 September, people around the world are riding, running, swimming, and taking on their own challenges to honor Dr. Paul Lowe: a pioneering photojournalist, educator, and endurance athlete who inspired hundreds of emerging storytellers before we lost him in October 2024.

THE GOAL - Every contribution I raise supports The VII Foundation and its work training and championing the next generation of visual journalists — expanding access to tuition-free education and continuing Paul's lifelong commitment to mentoring emerging storytellers, especially those from under-resourced and post-conflict regions.

THE RESULTS TO DATE - Together, we raised more than $75,000.

When we launched the Challenge, we hoped it would become more than a memorial. We hoped it would create opportunities for others and carry forward the values that shaped Paul's life: curiosity, generosity, education, friendship, and a belief in the power of storytelling. Over the past year, the Challenge has already started doing exactly that.

- The Paul Lowe Challenge funds a fellowship for photographer Mosfiqur Rahman Johan. Through the VII Mentor Program 2026, Johan will continue to develop his documentary practice with support inspired by Paul's commitment to nurturing emerging talent.

- The Paul Lowe Challenge supports the Paul Lowe Criterium 2026 in Sarajevo. Paul rode with Giro di Sarajevo for many years. In his memory, the Paul Lowe Challenge helped fund the Elite race prizes and the Paul Lowe Trophy, bringing cyclists together in a city that meant so much to him.

- The Paul Lowe Challenge funds a new training program for journalists in exile. This hybrid online/in-person program begins this November 2026 with a cohort of journalists from Myanmar, providing tuition-free professional training in reporting, research, photography, and visual storytelling. Through online learning, a full week workshop in Thailand, and mentorship from internationally recognized journalists, participants will develop stories for publication while strengthening independent journalism under extraordinarily difficult circumstances.

- The Paul Lowe Challenge funds the launch of the Paul Lowe Residency, to be held in Sarajevo in late October 2026. The residency will provide a Ukrainian photojournalist with dedicated time, editorial mentorship, technical support, and professional production resources to further develop an existing body of documentary work.

These are just the first steps. With your support, we will continue investing in photographers, journalists, education, mentorship, and the next generation of storytellers.

DENIS MCCREADY'S CHALLENGE 2026

I've decided to have events on both days of the challenge - 26 and 27 September 2026.

SUNDAY 27 SEPTEMBER around Montreal (Canada) - 125 km solo bike ride with my camera. I will be stopping along the way and updating my Instagram as I go. My goal is 20km longer than last year. I ride solo because I want to set my own pace and stop when I want. The itinerary will be shared after the ride.

CALL TO ACTION - This isn't about finishing first. It's about showing up and being present, and you can make a real difference. Please donate today and share my page with anyone who believes in the power of journalism. Your support will help empower the next generation of storytellers. Thank you.