If you saw a flash of bright green flying past you at the marathon this weekend, that was probably Run for Sudan. And the runners’ efforts have raised almost £10k!
A group of University of Southampton students took on this year’s ABP Marathon Festival in a powerful show of solidarity, with nearly 100 runners coming together for one shared purpose: Sudan. Their specially commissioned green T-shirts, emblazoned with “Run for Sudan” on the front, stood out across the course. On the back, a beautifully woven calligraphic design of the Arabic phrase Al Haraka Barakah (“movement is blessing”) was paired with a commissioned graphic showing runners of all ages, from children to grandparents, moving forward together in traditional Sudanese attire.
From first-time 5K runners to full marathon finishers, students across the university united behind a campaign raising awareness and funds for the humanitarian crisis in Sudan. Founded by students from the University of Southampton Sudanese Society, the initiative brought together more than 30 societies and became one of the largest student fundraising collaborations seen on campus this year.
The day also marked a major milestone for the team behind the initiative, as they officially launched Nile Active, a new platform built around movement, adventure, and impact. The initiative brings together runners, creatives, and the wider community to organise events that raise awareness for Sudan. Nile Active can be found on Instagram and will be launching a website soon, alongside a new and unique merchandise line.
The marathon turnout was the result of months of planning, collaboration, and fundraising across the university community. Alongside runners, the team worked with partners, sponsors, and student groups to build momentum for the campaign and create a strong presence in the charity village throughout the event.
One of the standout moments came when the team was joined by Sudanese Olympian
, who led the warm-up, guided runners through stretches, and started the run with the group. They were also visited by British marathon runner Mahamed Mahamed, who stopped by the team’s stand, cheered them on, and picked up exclusive campaign merchandise.
In the charity village, the group created a lively and welcoming atmosphere, serving Sudanese tea and Ethiopian coffee to medalists and supporters throughout the day.
For the students involved, the marathon was more than just a sporting event. It brought together people from across the university and wider city in support of those affected by one of the world’s most urgent humanitarian crises.
The campaign has now raised nearly £10,000 across donation platforms and is expected to continue growing as the team looks ahead to future events and further fundraising.
A spokesperson for the campaign said the support they received on the day was overwhelming and reflected the strength of the student community behind the cause. They added that the launch of Nile Active marks “just the beginning” of a wider movement to keep Sudan’s crisis in the public eye and turn student energy into lasting impact.
The campaign was supported by partners and sponsors including Ethar Relief and Sadaqat UK.
With the marathon now complete, the team says they are already looking ahead to what comes next, with plans to build on the momentum from race day and continue growing the campaign.
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