University of Southampton

Running for Equality: YiLin and An-Sofie’s Fundraising Journey to Support Disadvantaged Students

YiLin running in the Southampton Marathon

Why did you run for Ignite?

As a former international student, and now working at the Students’ Union in a strong student-facing role, I am acutely aware of the importance of equitable access to education for students from diverse backgrounds. I strongly believe that every underrepresented student at Southampton should have the best chance to overcome the barriers they face and build the bright future they deserve regardless of their background. This belief motivated me to do a fundraising run with my colleagues.

I created a detailed training plan and ran with An-Sofie during lunch breaks, which helped me make significant progress. Running the marathon was challenging but rewarding! I had corns on my feet from overtraining a few weeks before the race, but I managed to finish and set a personal record. I can still remember that day’s weather was perfect, and the crowd support was incredible. I was so proud of us and very happy to raise money for the Ignite Programme at the same time.

This journey not only improved my fitness but also strengthened my commitment to the cause.

The experience was so rewarding that it has motivated me to continue running. My next goal is to complete a half marathon, and I’m excited to see how far I can push myself.

The biggest lesson I’ve taken away is: “don’t put limits on yourself.” I never thought I’d enjoy running so much, and I believe that’s what our Ignite Programme can do for our students—create unlimited possibilities from limited conditions.

An-Sofie posing with two peace signs while running in the southampton marathon across the st mary's stadium

Why did you run for Ignite?

I wanted to help raise funds for the Ignite Programme because I am passionate about equal opportunities in higher education.

I’ve worked with many student staff and volunteers over the years through working at SUSU, and it continues to amaze me how students combine full-time degrees with a range of extra-curricular activities to support their studies and develop their careers. Everyone should get the chance to flourish while they are at university, so I’m happy that we were able to contribute to such a cause.

I ran the half marathon, and it went well! It was an amazing event to be a part of and credit is due to the organisers, the marshals and the lovely people who cheered us on with signs and sweets.

I had run a half marathon the year before, but I wasn’t joining on my own this time so it felt very different. I’d love to sign up for future events as I have very much caught the bug.

It was a lovely initiative to be a part of. The communication was great throughout, and it felt like everyone’s effort was recognised and celebrated. I’ve learned that there is a lot of generosity and team spirit among University and SUSU staff, and I’m very grateful for the friends, family and colleagues who donated and cheered us on.

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Contact Us

If you have any fundraising ideas, or need additional support with your fundraising, please do not hesitate to contact our our Direct Marketing Fundraising Officer, Zoe Chapple, and she will be happy to help, or you can fill out our form below

Click here to register your interest in fundraising

Email: commfr@soton.ac.uk

Telephone: +44 (0) 23 8059 7796