Introduction:

I never could have imagined the incredible adventure that awaited me when I joined a group of passionate engineers from Mott MacDonald and Balfour Beatty on a sponsored walk along the picturesque River Thames. My name is Jared, and along with my teammates Ali, Syd, Jamie, Katerina, Grace, and Victor, I set out on a mission to complete a grueling 77km trek from Staines to Canary Wharf. Our goal was to raise funds for the construction of a 77-meter footbridge in Rwanda, scheduled for June 2023. Little did I know, this journey would not only test my physical endurance but also leave an indelible mark on my heart.


The Great Thames Trek:

As the sun rose on the first day of our adventure, a mix of excitement and nerves filled the air. We stood at the starting point in Staines, ready to take on the challenge that lay ahead. With each step, we encountered breathtaking landscapes along the River Thames. However, the journey was not without its challenges. Fatigue, blisters and train strikes threatened to derail us, but the unwavering determination and support from my teammates kept us going. We pushed ourselves beyond our limits, covering 46km on that first day, fueled by a shared sense of purpose.

On the second day, with tired legs and aching muscles, we embarked on the final stretch of our walk. As we neared Canary Wharf, the end was in sight. Every step brought us closer to our goal, to the completion of our 77km feat. Despite the physical exhaustion, a surge of exhilaration coursed through my veins. We had done it. We had conquered the remaining 31 kilometers, arriving at the Balfour Beatty Canary Wharf Office together with a mixture of exhaustion and pride.



Bridging Communities, Building Futures:

The sponsored walk was about more than just covering a distance; it was a symbol of unity and purpose. The funds we raised through our extraordinary journey will go towards constructing a 77m footbridge in Rwanda. This bridge will connect communities, providing a safe and convenient passage across a once impassable river. It will be a lifeline, fostering economic growth, improving access to healthcare and education, and forging stronger bonds between people. Knowing that our efforts will directly impact lives and empower communities fills my heart with immense joy and gratitude.


Impact and Future Goals:

With the unwavering support of our sponsors and well-wishers, we have successfully raised funds to kickstart the footbridge construction project in Rwanda. The completion of our sponsored walk was just the beginning. In the coming months, our team, alongside Bridges to Prosperity, will embark on the implementation phase, working tirelessly to bring this life-changing project to fruition. We are driven by a shared vision of building a brighter future, where communities can thrive and prosper.


Conclusion:

This incredible journey along the River Thames, from Staines to Canary Wharf, has transformed me in ways I never anticipated. As I reflect on the challenges we faced, the friendships we forged, and the impact we will make in Rwanda, I am filled with an overwhelming sense of fulfillment. Together, with Ali, Syd, Jamie, Katerina, Grace, and Victor, we have proven that with determination and a shared purpose, we can defy limits and bridge gaps, both physically and metaphorically. Our sponsored walk was not just about covering a distance—it was a testament to the power of unity and the remarkable things we can achieve when we come together for a greater cause.

                                     -Jared Tiller