For those of you who know us well, we're never ones to shy away from new experiences and we firmly believe in using our spirit of adventure for the good of others. So, in February 2025, we will be travelling to southern Algeria to run the Sahara Marathon in order to raise awareness for, show solidarity to and raise funds to assist the Saharawi people. As part of our journey, we will be living with the Saharawi families who reside in refugee camps in a permanent state of exile in the Western Sahara. Any money we raise will be used to help improve the lives of these people who, for no fault of their own, have been under-represented for far too long.

As an experienced runner, part of the challenge for Hanni will be navigating the desert conditions. The heat, the terrain and the small issue of having to get Matthew round in one piece will be no mean feat. However, what makes this event so special is the opportunity for her to go into Saharawi refugee schools and assist the teachers and children there with resources she hopes will help to change their lives in the future.

For Matthew, this will be the first marathon he has ever run and covering the full distance is going to be a huge undertaking for him. He has a long history of raising money for good causes and he hopes that in completing this challenge, he will not only learn a lot about himself but also develop a deep understanding of the Saharawi people, their lives and their culture.

Since 2009, Sandblast has been the official UK promotional partner for the Sahara Marathon. Sandblast pioneered the Desert Voicebox Project which offers after school activities to give refugee women and children opportunities to develop their potential for a much brighter future. All money raised will go to support this project and we believe whole heartedly in the life changing potential it has for the people of the Western Sahara.

We are extremely grateful of any donations and look forward to sharing this amazing journey with you.

Much love,

Hanni and Matthew