Hey there!

I’m Justin, a queer runner of Asian heritage, and I’ve been selected as a charity runner for the 2026 Tokyo Marathon—running loud and proud in support of Pride House Tokyo NPO ️‍

Growing up, I felt the sting of stigma that so many LGBTQ+ youth still face today. As someone navigating both cultural and queer identity, I know how heavy the silence can feel—how hard it is to find safe spaces where you’re accepted exactly as you are. That’s why I’m passionate about supporting Pride House Tokyo, who are doing powerful work to change that experience for LGBTQ+ youth across Japan.

Pride House Tokyo runs Japan’s first permanent LGBTQ+ centre—offering education, resources, community programming, and, most importantly, safety. I’ve visited Japan four times and hold a deep love for its people and culture. Running through the streets of Tokyo as part of this mission isn’t just a personal milestone—it’s a statement of visibility, allyship, and hope.

Unlike most World Major Marathons, Tokyo selects its charity runners before the general lottery opens. That means this isn’t something I chose because I missed out—it’s something I committed to first, because I believe in the cause and the impact we can make together.

Earlier this year, I raised over AUD $2,800 for Movember as part of my Sydney Marathon campaign. Now, I’m back on the fundraising trail—this time with a goal of AUD $2,100 to support Pride House Tokyo NPO. Every dollar will go directly toward their life-changing community work.

If you’re able to donate, thank you from the bottom of my heart. And if not, sharing this page is a powerful way to show your support too.

Let’s run for a future where every LGBTQ+ young person in Japan feels safe, seen, and supported.

— Justin ‍♂️️‍