How did you get involved with The Running Charity?

My first involvement with The Running Charity was way back in 2012 at New Horizon Youth Centre. I was homeless, and the youth centre was a safe place for me. Claude (TRCs London Manager) was also a young person at the day centre, and he brought me along as we were both homeless and living in the same shelter. I was seeking asylum back then, and it was a tough time. New Horizon Youth Centre was also where I met Alex (TRCs Co-Founder), and he became my key worker and brought me along to The Running Charity programmes he was running in the evening. We used to do warm-ups and start the sessions just behind New Horizon. The sessions were always a place of laughter, and although I was very quiet then, it was a great place to be yourself, make friends and feel good. 

What does your average day look like?

My days are split between several duties. First, I work with a range of partners who refer young people to The Running Charity. I am often the first point of contact, so it’s making the young people feel confident they will be listened to and that the coach will support them on their journey.

Second, my role also involves helping young people formalise and realise their goals or advocating or supporting them through a problem. The needs of our young people vary, so one day, I could be helping someone begin forging a career in creative writing to then supporting someone with an issue around their benefits. I like these interactions and giving my time to young people who are often in the same situation as I was. Listening to and then supporting them is a big part of my role.

Finally, I also coordinate the Meaningful Miles project, ensuring that when a runner chooses to run for the charity, they receive a really good service and a lovely shiny medal at the end of it!

What would you say is your proudest achievement since working with us?

My proudest achievement working at the running charity is just being part of the charity and helping to make a difference in young people’s lives. 

I have been a part of The Running Charity from very early on, and it’s special for me to be able to play a role in putting smiles back on our young people’s faces and seeing them achieve their goals and objectives. 

I am now in a position to pass my experiences on in a positive way. Seeing someone go through difficulties and having the chance to make a difference in their lives is the biggest achievement I could ever ask for. 

What has been your best moment, personally?

Every single day is a moment for me. This place is home to me, and coming to the office always excites me because I know I can learn, support or impact something or someone’s life every day. 

Why do you like working with young people?

Personally, it’s a blessing. I reflect on my childhood back in Sierra Leone; not having that support around me is not something I want for others now. We can’t control what our young people experience, but we know we ensure they don’t have to face their future alone and without support.

I am also a people person, and being around young people is amazing because I have the platform to learn from them and vice versa. It brings peace to me to see someone achieve something they didn’t expect would happen.

Away from The Running Charity, what keeps you busy?

Too many to name, but they all involve young people.

Why do you like working with young people?

Away from The Running Charity, I’m a home buddy, lol. I stay home when I can but I still play football on Tuesday and Thursday evenings and Saturday 11 aside. I find peace in writing. It helps me keep going and brings me focus.

I listen to loads of music and love a good TV series. I run alone twice a week and have been thinking of studying alongside my work.

When did you start running, and why? 

Well, it’s way back in 2012, but when I first started, I only ran with The Running Charity and not alone; my immigration was a constant worry for me as I didn’t know what would happen to me, and that uncertainty was always very heavy. Claude and Steve used to come and train me, so I always had that link to running, but I think when I did the big half for the first time was the point I felt I was a “runner” I haven’t looked back now and I am training to run The London Marathon in April, which I am super excited about.

Tell us about your favourite race or run? 

Honestly, I have loved every run I have taken part in, but currently, I’ll say the Big Half. But as I said, The London Marathon is in April, so that may be the new one. Watch this space….