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Reason for Walking

Having started my job at the University of Sheffield in early February this year, I have been pleasantly surprised by how motivated most staff members are in supporting worthwhile causes. I felt welcomed into this environment immediately because of the profound warmth displayed to me, but more importantly because I subscribe to the idea of actively supporting what I feel are worthwhile causes. There is most certainly a unique buzz in the air caused by the inherent environment fostered at the University of Sheffield, of which I am extremely excited to contribute towards.

Walking the Big Walk is understandably going to be provide a challenge I have never confronted before (I have never participated in even a half marathon, nor have I trained for anything as intense as this!). That being said, the refugees, for which this walk is inspired by, would have walked far further, with minimal practice and with the added burden of the mental burden of fear fueling their exodus. As a human that fiercely believes we are all fundamentally the same, with the same desires, fears and needs, I am walking because I believe that direct experience will help to deepen understanding of their journey.

What will the money be used for?

Without knowing how much will be raised in total (for everybody involved in the Big Walk, rather than just my effort), it’s impossible to give a definitive answer to this question. Regardless, the bulk of the donations will be used primarily to support at-risk academics, meaning academics in vulnerable areas of the world.  Every academic that will be helped comes with their own needs; it can never be predicted how much will be needed as there are so many variables.  What can be said is that donations will not be used to cover university fees but will instead provide additional support for other expenses such as visas, travel costs to the UK, accommodation and living expenses.  They often come to the UK with nothing so need absolute basics – right down to pots and pans, or bedding.  It’s easy to see that Big Walk donations will make an enormous difference in cases like this. Additionally, a small proportion (possibly 10%) will be used to boost the scholarships to refugee students.

Itinerary

Eastern route: Hornsea to Tankersley

On Friday 17th June, I will be joining with the other team that is involved in this (the team that is walking between Southport and Tankersley). Together, both teams will be walking from Tankersley to Sheffield.

Additional Note(s)

On the journey, I will guarantee to take photos of the progress (such as the team walking, particularly nice scenery, etc). Additionally, I am in the process of discussing whether updates from my journey can be uploaded onto the University of Sheffield's School of Architecture Twitter account. All donations, no matter how large or small, are extremely appreciated.

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