Jumping for justice
Shalena Haughton-Peters, the Runnymede Trust’s operations director, recently did a sponsored skydive to raise funds for the organisation. She explains what motivated her to take on the challenge – and encourages others to follow in her footsteps.
When I first decided to do a skydive for charity, I knew it had to be for a cause that genuinely meant something to me – and that’s why I chose the Runnymede Trust. As the UK’s leading race equality think tank, Runnymede does vital work tackling racial injustice, influencing policy and pushing for systemic change.
But what made this fundraising effort even more meaningful is that I work there. Fundraising as a staff member added an extra layer to the experience – I see first-hand the dedication, the challenges and the impact of our work every day. Taking on this challenge felt like a powerful way to show my personal commitment to our mission outside of my day-to-day role.
Now, skydiving wasn’t exactly something I’d always dreamed of doing – but I’ve always admired people who take on bold, adrenaline-fuelled challenges for a good cause. It felt like the perfect mix of personal growth and public support. If I was going to throw myself (literally) out of my comfort zone, I wanted it to be in service of something bigger. And let’s be honest – telling people you’re jumping out of a plane for race equality gets a lot of attention, and that’s part of the point.
‘For 40 seconds, it was pure, chaotic wind and thrill’
In the weeks leading up to the jump, I had moments of “What have I signed up for?” But the team at GoSkydive were fantastic, and by the time I arrived at the airfield in Ashford, I felt surprisingly confident.
The freefall was beyond anything I expected. For 40 seconds, it was pure, chaotic wind and thrill – absolutely terrifying and completely exhilarating. Once the parachute opened and we slowed down, everything shifted. I was suddenly floating peacefully above the countryside, taking in sweeping landscape views. It was quiet, surreal and unforgettable.
Landing safely back on the ground, I felt incredible relief, joy and pride. I’d faced fear, pushed my limits, and raised money for work I deeply believed in. The support from friends, family and even strangers was overwhelming, and it reminded me how much people care when you give them a reason to rally around something meaningful.
The best part of the experience was having my children there to see me complete this goal. It wasn’t just about raising money for a great cause – it was about showing them that when you set your mind to something, you can achieve it, no matter how big the challenge. This moment, and the memory of it, will leave a lasting legacy for both them and me. It was a truly special way to impact our lives and theirs positively.
If you’re considering fundraising for the Runnymede Trust – do it. Whether it’s a skydive, a bake sale, a sponsored walk or something unique to you, it’s a fun and rewarding way to support real change. As a staff member and now a skydiver, I can honestly say it’s one of the best things I’ve ever done.
If you’d like to boost Shalena’s fundraising total, please visit her JustGiving page. And you’re interested in fundraising for the Runnymede Trust, we’d love to hear from you: info@runnymedetrust.org
The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect those of the Runnymede Trust.
Join the fight for racial justice: support the Runnymede Trust’s work by making a donation.
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