We, Adeshina & Joel, are running the Manchester Marathon to raise funds for real, lasting change in Nigeria and DR Congo—two countries we still call home.

Our journey is personal. We both left our home countries at a young age, moving to the UK in search of a better future. But leaving behind our families, cultures, and everything familiar came with challenges we never expected.

We know what it feels like to start over. To feel uprooted. To fight for a sense of belonging.

And we also know what it means to fight for something bigger than ourselves.

That’s why we’re running.

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Why We’re Running

Joel’s Story:

“I was just 9 years old when my family was forced to flee DR Congo. The conflict had become unbearable—gunfire outside our home, armed soldiers taking my father away simply because he stood for justice. Staying meant risking our lives, so we left everything behind.”

“Coming to the UK was a new beginning, but it wasn’t easy. I had to learn a new language, adapt to a new culture, and figure out where I belonged. Football and fitness became my escape—they gave me confidence and purpose.”

“That’s how I met Ade—through fitness. We connected over our shared experiences, our passion for empowering others, and our drive to make a difference. Now, we’re running this marathon together, not just for ourselves, but for the people back home who continue to fight for a future they deserve.”

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Ade’s Story:

“I moved from Nigeria to the UK at 15 years old. It was an opportunity that changed my life, but it also came with challenges I never saw coming. I left behind my friends, my culture, and the sense of home I had always known. The transition was overwhelming—I developed a stutter, struggled with confidence, and, for years, felt like I had lost my voice.”

“But through fitness, I found my strength again. At university, I built a fitness community that went on to win an award for Best Student Society. Fitness wasn’t just physical—it was a tool for empowerment.”

“That’s why I founded Empowered Human Tribe, a not-for-profit social enterprise dedicated to mental well-being and empowerment. And that’s why I’m running. Because I know firsthand what it’s like to feel powerless, and I refuse to let that define our people.”

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‍♂️ The Mission: Where Your Support Goes

This marathon is more than just a race—it’s a movement. We are raising money to support:

✅ Food security – Helping communities combat hunger

✅ Women’s rights & protection against gender-based violence – Providing safe spaces and resources

✅ Empowerment for people with disabilities – Giving hope and opportunities to those often forgotten

✅ Education & community development – Creating pathways for future generations

We are not running out of pity. We are running out of purpose.

Africa is already fighting for itself. We are just making sure they have the resources to win.

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How You Can Help

Your donation, no matter the size, will fund real, sustainable change in Nigeria & DR Congo.

Donate here

Share this. Spread the word.

❤️ Be part of something bigger.

Together, we can:

Run for those who can’t.

Empower those without opportunities.

Give back to the communities that need us most.

Join us. Let’s run, give, and change lives—one mile at a time.