My passion for cycling began after moving out of my parents’ house. I’d visit them on weekends, stay the night, then cycle home. What started as a simple way to travel turned into a love for the freedom of the road and the challenge of packing light on my carbon bike.

From Hobby to Global Impact

Eventually, I planned a year-long journey around the world by bike. I cycled from the UK to Georgia, Vietnam to Indonesia, Brazil to Chile, and from Spain back home.

Along the way, I was struck by the kindness of strangers. In Indonesia, when I couldn’t find a hotel, locals let me sleep in a mosque and shared food with me. Travelling off the beaten path meant I had genuine cultural exchanges and picked up bits of new languages.  

Argentina became my favourite country. Riding the iconic Ruta 40 past volcanoes and canyons was unforgettable, though one day I rode 91 miles through complete wilderness, relying on passing vehicles for water. Despite travelling alone, I never truly felt on my own.

Turning Miles into Hope

The idea to fundraise came after seeing the aftermath of Typhoon Yagi while cycling through Vietnam. Seeing homes destroyed and lives disrupted made me reflect on how vital safe, secure housing is, something many of us take for granted. I knew I wanted to do more than just travel; I wanted to help.

I chose to support Habitat for Humanity GB because of their commitment to building homes for vulnerable families around the world. While the charity doesn’t operate directly in Vietnam, its global work resonated with me. I was fortunate to visit one of their housing projects in Cambodia, where I saw well-constructed homes designed to withstand climate challenges. These weren’t just buildings, they were foundations for stability, safety and a better future.

Raising funds while on the road wasn’t always easy, but it gave me a powerful reason to keep going. On tough days in remote areas, when my legs were tired and the weather was against me, knowing that my efforts were helping to provide homes for those in need kept me pushing forward.

Although I didn’t quite reach my original target, I’m proud to have raised over £3,400. That money will go towards creating lasting change, helping more families access the security and dignity of a decent home.

A Journey Worth Sharing

This trip taught me the power of connection, resilience and purpose. I’m grateful to everyone who supported my fundraising for Habitat for Humanity GB. If it inspires someone else to take on a challenge for a good cause, even better.