Maya's Miles, All the Way Around

Maya Gilbert is raising money for Hospitality Action

Coastal Walk

Behind their smiles and slick service hospitality workers can fall upon hard times just like anybody else. Ours is a stressful industry, with long hours, high pressure environments and physically demanding work. We are here to offer financial, physical and psychological support to those who need it.

Story

All the Way Around.

One woman, one island, 2700 miles of coastline.

This summer, I’m walking the entire England Coast Path, all 2,700 miles of it. The Goal is to do so in 120 days, raising money for Hospitality Action.

Hospitality Action is a UK-based charity that has been a lifeline for individuals working in the hospitality sector who face financial hardship, illness, injury, or personal challenges. Founded to support the well-being of workers in an industry that thrives on human connection.

The challenge will start and finish in Liverpool, my hometown. Beginning at Seacombe Ferry Port in Birkenhead and working my way anti-clockwise along the Wirral Peninsula, into the South West and all the way around the shores of England.

Like many, for years I have spent years carrying things I didn’t know how to put down. My twenties were tough and I battled with high levels of anxiety. When the country was put into lockdown I had just started a new business age 25 and was not able to receive help from furlough or the government, further exacerbating the anxiety. At that time Hospitality Action announced their COVID grants, which became an absolute lifeline to help me through such a difficult period. I felt it was only right when planning this challenge to reach out and try to give back.

So, for the foreseeable, you’ll find me walking. The entire English coastline. Past pubs, ports, and pebbled beaches. I’ll be aiming to walk 22.5 miles a day, with one week off for Glastonbury (because I’m not a machine and I finally got tickets after 12 years of trying!). Some days will be magic, others will be miserable but every single step will matter.

I’m raising £25,000 for Hospitality Action

Because they continue to support workers in one of the toughest industries out there and because no one should face hard times alone.

Follow the Journey

Instagram: @mayana.gilbana

Tiktok: @mayanagilbana

Substack: @mayagilbert

Whether you’re here for the scenery, the stories, or just want to cheer me on when my feet are full of blisters, I’d love your company.

See you at the bar. And hopefully, somewhere along the shore.

Donation summary

Total
£1,224.21
+ £250.50 Gift Aid
Online
£1,224.21
Offline
£0.00

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