‘It’s time to work together and make an impact’

AS A privileged 18-year-old living in London, born with opportunity, I have always felt a sense of duty towards helping those far less fortunate in the world.

Growing up, I’ve been naturally ambitious to do things for others, and contribute something to those who have less.

Recently, the horrors unfolding in Afghanistan, have evoked an urgency to act and a sickening enragement within me. Hearing stories and seeing pictures of Afghans desperately fleeing their homeland in search of safety horrifies me about how vulnerable and isolated a country and its people can become.

I decided I had to do something. I decided to raise money for a major Afghan appeal and picked the UNHCR’s Afghanistan Appeal. I heard from my father about the amazing work they do. I decided to do a charity run.

As unprofessional sportswomen, my sister and I were up for the challenge to commit to our first 10K run. This physical act of determination and motivation gives me hope that raising money for UNHCR can also give Afghan refugees hope as a force of survival. I’m not a runner, it’s not easy, but that’s irrelevant. On my first practice run (just 2K!) I kept thinking about the horrors unfolding 3,500 miles away. So far, yet so present. We’ve been pleased with the generous sponsorship we’ve already received and have noticed how much impact a simple fundraising event has on the potential to change lives. It’s time to start noticing our responsibilities, and time to work together to make an impact. Each of us have our own duty in this world, it’s just about discovering what it is.