Shinu Yohannan & Emil Yohan Shinu: Running Together for BBC Media Action at the Great North Run 2025

My son, Emil Yohan Shinu, and I have the honour of being part of the BBC Media Action Fundraising Team as we run together in the Great North Run 2025 to raise vital funds for this important international development charity.

I will be participating in both the Great North Run 2025 and the Great North 5K Curtain Raiser Event, while Emil, who is 8 years old and a student at Brighton Avenue Primary School in Gateshead will be running in the Junior & Mini Great North Run 2025.

Why We Are Running for BBC Media Action

BBC Media Action is a respected charity carrying out vital work around the world. It is dedicated to reducing poverty, improving health, building resilience, and helping people exercise their rights.

Operating in over 35 countries, the charity works closely with communities and governments to deliver trusted, life-saving information, especially in conflict zones and regions affected by poverty, disease, and climate change.

BBC Media Action tackles poverty, including child poverty and education, as core challenges. By providing reliable, life-saving information, the charity helps communities improve health, build resilience, and access better opportunities.

🧼 Leading public health campaigns focused on maternal and child health

📚 Promoting education and awareness for vulnerable families

🌍 Supporting climate adaptation and disaster preparedness

The Importance of Your Support

In a world where misinformation spreads rapidly and millions face conflict, displacement, and environmental challenges, reliable information is life-saving. BBC Media Action reaches nearly 100 million people annually, empowering communities to make informed decisions that protect their futures.

Join Our Journey

By supporting our fundraising efforts, you're not just backing two runners: you’re helping to amplify voices, spread knowledge, and drive positive change on a global scale.

Every donation makes a difference.

Together, we can ensure that access to life-saving information is a right, not a privilege.

Thank you sincerely for your consideration and support.

Encouraging Words by Mark Ferguson MP, Gateshead: https://www.youtube.com/shorts/-Yhi49dC5wk

Find out more about BBC Media Action at:

www.bbc.co.uk/mediaaction

Warm regards,

Shinu Yohannan & Emil Yohan Shinu