This March, thousands of Australians will be taking part in CARE Australia’s annual Walk In Her Shoes Challenge – an fundraising event to help support women and girls living in poverty overseas. Last year, walker Emily Sargeson completed the Challenge… barefoot! This year she plans to go barefoot again while completing a massive 40km!
What inspired you to take part in this year’s Walk In Her Shoes Challenge?
I am forever inspired by women all over the world. I am constantly in awe of women of all ages who face challenges every day that I never have to think about. I am so privileged to study, drink clean water and ride a bike – and I hope that by participating in Walk In Her Shoes I can help contribute to getting other girls to have the same.
Is this the first time that you’ve decided to participate in Walk In Her Shoes?
This is my second year – I can’t wait!
How do you plan to walk your 10,000 steps a day?
I will be doing 6-8km a day barefoot and carrying 12L of water. I am doing this in order to try and understand a little bit more of the challenge that many women in the developing world face, as authentically as I can. It is so easy for us to walk in comfy sneakers, with a friend, and have deliciously nutritious breakfast afterwards… but what about the women we are walking for?
Do you have a personal fundraising target?
My goal is to hit at least $500 as that was what I raised last year, but I think it is important to just raise what you can – even small donations make a difference.
How have you managed to get support from your family and friends?
Well, most of my family and friends think I’m pretty crazy, haha! Once I have explained why I am doing it the way I am, they are on board. They also know that when I throw myself into something I give it 100%. I have a very supportive family – in particular last year my uncle donated $10 for every kilometre I walked!
If you could walk 10,000 steps anywhere the in the world, where would it be and why?
Canada. I could definitely achieve at least 10,000 steps walking around the amazing national parks, waterfalls and forests!
From 16-22 March 2015, you can join thousands of Australians taking part in CARE Australia’s Walk In Her Shoes Challenge. The money you raise by taking part will help fund CARE projects that help women, girls and entire communities overcome the devastating cycle of poverty.
To take the first step, simply register online today at Walkinhershoes.org.au.
