Emelia was one of our wonderful Bath University placement students who made a very particular contribution by running an ultra-marathon to raise money to help our kids!
Last year, I spent six months volunteering as a teacher at [a Myanmar refugee school] in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. I had the privilege of teaching over 30 children from [Myanmar], with subjects ranging from English and History to Maths and Life skills. We also organised monthly badminton sessions, and weekly extra English classes after school, to maximise the students’ opportunities and enjoyment.
Despite the challenges and significant barriers the students have faced – where they have fled their home country due to civil war, have been separated from family, and face an uncertain future – they arrived at school every day with enthusiasm, resilience, and joy. They never failed to make the classroom an uplifting, welcoming environment, and their unique personalities shone through!
Over six months, I built strong relationships with the students and teachers, gaining a deeper understanding of the realities faced by refugee communities and the vital role that education plays in creating a safe space for the children to learn and grow, while also helping them shape their futures.
Leaving Malaysia was difficult. Although my placement came to an end, I knew I wanted to continue supporting the school and raising awareness of the incredible work being done by [the refugee school], Soroptimist International Damansara, and Just Volunteers.
To do this, I decided to take on my biggest physical challenge yet: a 100km ultra marathon.
Training began soon after my return to the UK, building up from 5km to 100km! I followed a structured, unforgiving training plan, that allowed me to build up strength and endurance. There were times when my busy schedule made me think it wasn’t going to be possible, but facing this challenge was a priority for me, and I could never give up. Before I knew it, it was May and there was only a week to go… time to carb load!
Over one weekend, I ran 100km from London to Brighton, covering 58km on the Saturday and 42km on the Sunday. The challenge pushed me far out of my comfort zone. Long hours on my feet, exhaustion, blisters, sore muscles, and a heatwave across the UK, all tested my determination. There were many moments when I thought the finish line was never coming! However, throughout the challenge, I often thought about the students I had taught at MRCLC, and their resilience in the face of adversity served as a powerful source of motivation. Compared to the obstacles many of them overcome every day, the temporary discomfort of running felt like a small challenge. This mindset helped me cross that finish line on Sunday afternoon!
Completing the 100km ultra marathon was one of the toughest things I have ever done, but it was also one of the most rewarding. Knowing that the challenge contributed to a cause so close to my heart made every kilometre worthwhile.
The purpose of the ultra-marathon was not only to raise funds but also to highlight the importance of supporting refugee education. Community learning centres such as [the amazing refugee school where I taught] provide safe spaces where children can learn, grow, and develop the skills needed to help them build their bright futures. Every donation helps support educational resources, teaching staff, and opportunities for students who may otherwise be excluded from formal education.
If you are interested in supporting Emelia and giving money to this truly important cause please ‘Contact Us’ and we will come back to you with details of how to make a secure payment (her Just Giving page has now closed.)
Thank you!