On 12 April 2026, I will be running the London Landmarks Half Marathon to support the Sevenoaks School Foundation.

I attended Sevenoaks for my International Baccalaureate in 2005-07 - a proud member of Girls International House (GIH). As a foreign student coming from a very different culture at the time, I didn’t fully grasp until later just how much of an opportunity it was to attend a school like Sevenoaks - and how privileged I was that my family was able to send me there in the first place.

Attending Sevenoaks was life-changing in many ways - from the incredible academic and career opportunities it opened up for me, to the ways it helped me grow into the adult I am today, to the deep and lasting friendships I formed while there (looking at you here, fellow fundraiser and dearest friend Isabella!!). It would be wonderful to be part of helping someone - who at the moment might not feel like it is within their grasp - have the same opportunity I had.

Two decades later, I still feel the remarkable impact of my time at Sevenoaks on my life. I am really excited to have an opportunity to raise money to support bursaries that will allow students of all financial and social backgrounds to access a first-class education.

Raising money through running feels especially fitting, as it brings me back to when I first tried cross-country running at Sevenoaks. Despite being one of the slowest in the training group, I stuck with it, and the experience taught me the importance of doing sports for personal growth and enjoyment, rather than comparing yourself to others - a lesson I have carried with me ever since.

I am incredibly thankful for any support you can offer as I train for this race to raise funds for bursaries at Sevenoaks School. Every contribution, no matter how big or small, will help open doors for students and will truly make a difference. Thank you so much for your generosity and encouragement!

Sofia