Our Transformation Manager, Santosh Salunkhe is taking on an epic challenge this August, aiming to travel from London to Istanbul, a mighty 1500-mile journey, but with only walking & public transport allowed. Santosh will be aiming to promote sustainability whilst also raising vital funds for Fareshare Manchester.
The Trans-European travel race, honours the fastest entrant to complete the course and the participant with the lowest budget within the time limit.
We took a moment to speak to Santosh, learning about the amazing challenge he’s about to embark on what motivated him to get involved…
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Hi Santosh, thanks for sharing your time with us. First off, Could you tell us a little more about this amazing challenge?
“The challenge I’m undertaking this August is the the London to Istanbul travel race, taking place from August 5th to the 12th. This mysterious race involves navigating through undisclosed checkpoints, relying solely on public and ground transport. The race honours the fastest entrant to complete the course and the participant with the lowest budget within the time limit.
It’s an arduous journey, but one I’m keen to take on!”
It sounds like a fantastic challenge, what motivated you to do it?
“Whilst completing research for sustainable projects here at Dunsters Farm, I was deeply moved by the alarming emissions caused by aviation & personal transportation. I also learnt that despite contributing the least to rising CO2 emissions, those living in poverty are often the most vulnerable to the effects of climate change. I’ve always been personally dedicated to reducing my own impact with responsible eating, and using sustainable travel options but I wondered in light of what I’d been learning, what more I could do to raise awareness.
“As I contemplated how to spread this vital message, destiny guided me to an extraordinary opportunity—the London to Istanbul travel race, I saw it as a great chance to promote sustainability whilst also raising vital funds for a charity aligned with Dunsters Farm – Fareshare.”
What do you hope to achieve from this challenge?
“I firmly believe that it is our collective responsibility to protect our Earth, share resources, and care for one another. While winning the race would be a great achievement, my ultimate satisfaction lies in completing the race and spreading this message of global unity. This journey will also cultivate resilience within me, strengthening my ability to overcome challenges, adapt to last-minute plans and reinforce my never-give-up attitude.”
A word for those who may wish to donate…
“By supporting this campaign, you are not only championing sustainability, and reducing poverty in the wider world but you’ll also be aiding the fight against poverty closer to home, as any profits from donations to the challenge will go towards food redistribution right here in Manchester.
“Join me on this extraordinary journey towards unity, sustainability, and poverty eradication. Every donation, regardless of its size, will create a ripple effect of change, shaping a brighter future for our planet and uplifting marginalized communities.”
To donate towards Santosh’s Epic Journey, go to Santosh’s Epic Sustainable Journey! on Go Fund Me
Learn more about Fareshare Manchester, and the work they do here.
