Throughout May, our passionate Skills Ignite team laced up their hiking boots and hit the trails around Auckland, supporting a cause close to all our hearts.
Led by our Hospitality Tutor, Rahul Pradhan, the team joined the MyMarathon Fundraiser with a mission to raise awareness and vital funds for heart disease research in Aotearoa. With weekend hikes, team spirit, and plenty of heart, our team truly crushed it!
Every 90 minutes, someone in New Zealand dies from heart disease, making it the country’s single biggest killer. For the thousands of Kiwis impacted, this isn’t just a statistic; it’s a heartbreaking reality.
For Rahul, this cause is deeply personal and a strong motivation. His mother battled a severe heart condition, and the experience left a lasting mark on him and his family.
“Seeing what my mum went through changed me,” he shares. “I wanted to do something—not just for her, but for every family who has faced similar pain.”
We originally set out with a $1,000 fundraising goal, but thanks to the incredible support of the Skills Ignite and Skills Group whānau, we raised a total of $3,635.43 and hiked a combined 805.6 km!
Through every park, trail, and hill – rain or shine – our team showed heart, determination, and hope for a healthier future for Kiwi hearts.
To our Ignite hikers – thank you. You’ve reminded us of the power of purpose. Let’s keep walking toward a stronger, healthier Aotearoa.
We’re incredibly proud of our team’s efforts and the impact they’ve made. But the journey doesn’t stop here. We hope these footsteps spark more conversations, more action, and continued support for life-saving heart research.
