Meet The Outrunners

The Outrunners go the extra mile when it comes to empowering young runners to chase their goals. The Run Your Career initiative involves a series of events and employability workshops which aim to level the playing field and inspire young minds, connecting individuals to industries including law, architecture, fashion, journalism, and more. 

By creating impactful opportunities for young people through their events, they aim to provide access to world-leading companies. The events attract diverse industry representatives and offer invaluable advice on breaking into different industries.  

Through career mapping, The Outrunners empower young runners to visualise their current position and plan out the steps needed to achieve their goals. They also give runners a chance to sign up for work experience with the companies that resonate with them most. 

“Being part of The Outrunners is good because you find new friends. It's like a second family.” 

The opportunities offered by Run Your Career don’t stop there. Sprint is an immersive one to three-day work experience opportunity giving participants a firsthand glimpse into the dynamic world of office environments.  

Its aim is to engage young runners in projects mirroring real-life. The participants gain valuable hands-on experience, allowing them to enhance their CVs or portfolios and effectively showcase their skills to prospective employers. 

“I feel part of the community and it's nice to feel welcome somewhere. We're a massive family; we help and accept one another.” 

The Outrunners’ mentors provide crucial support to young individuals in school years five and six, helping them navigate the challenging transition from primary to secondary school. Through group activities like ice skating, bike rides, and meals, the mentorship scheme aims to create a sense of community and friendship among mentees, helping improve their overall well-being. 

In 2023, The Outrunners launched Move in collaboration with Nike. Move was made for Black and Asian girls and women from low-income areas who had disengaged from sports. The women and girls who complete the program are encouraged to join ongoing running groups afterwards. Plus, The Outrunners will also choose up to four young women aged 18+ to support following program completion, helping them to become coaches, fitness advocates, and change-makers in their community. 

Lastly, to address underrepresentation in the run community, The Outrunners initiated The London Marathon Academy. In collaboration with the London Marathon, it provided those running access to coaching, nutritionists, physiotherapists, and talks from inspirational marathon runners from minority groups. In 2023, 20 runners participated and raised an astounding £21k! 

"Everyone loves and supports each other, we're like a big family." 

It's clear that The Outrunners' achievements haven't gone unnoticed, earning them features in the national press and recognition from publications like GQ Magazine and Runners World. As they lace up for the future, The Outrunners are not just about running; they’re paving the way for a healthier, more connected, and inclusive community in East London and beyond.  

Want to support the Outrunners too?

This Christmas they're raising money to help disadvantaged young people in East London with sports activities, including weekends in the great outdoors. You can donate directly here. You can also find out how to get involved with the Outrunners on their website.