Story
I’m running the London Marathon 2026 for Circle Collective, a charity that’s incredibly close to my heart.
Circle Collective was founded by my mum, Turly Humphreys to support young people who’ve faced some of the toughest starts in life. Growing up, I’ve seen first-hand the care, energy and belief that goes into the work Circle does and I’ve been lucky enough to help out in different ways over the years. It’s more than a charity to me, it’s something that’s been part of my life for a long time.
Circle works with young people aged 16–25 who are not in work and in many cases, have never had a job. Many are facing serious challenges, including homelessness, mental health struggles, involvement in the criminal justice system, being in care, caring for family members or exclusion from education. Circle exists to give young people the support, structure and belief they need to take their first steps into employment and build a future they can be proud of.
Through Circle’s Back Your Future programme, young people receive one-to-one coaching, employability and wellbeing workshops, and hands-on work experience in Circle’s streetwear and vintage retail stores. It’s practical, real-world support that helps young people build confidence, skills and direction alongside a network of people who genuinely back them.
Since 2011, Circle Collective has:
- Helped over 1,600 young people aged 16–25 move into employment
- Delivered 100,000+ hours of hands-on training
- Created safe, inclusive spaces where young people feel seen, valued and capable
This will be my first ever marathon, and I’ve set myself the ambitious goal of finishing sub-3:30. The training will be tough and the target is a stretch but running for Circle gives the whole thing real meaning when things get uncomfortable.
If you’re able to donate, thank you. Every pound really does count and helps give a young person the chance to take that first step and change the direction of their life.
