Local Team to Take on Gruelling Sahara Trek for Faith in Families Charity

A group of dedicated supporters of Swansea-based charity Faith in Families is gearing up for an extraordinary challenge as they prepare to trek 100 kilometres through the harsh and stunning landscape of the southern Moroccan Sahara. This week-long trek will see participants, including key members of the Faith in Families team, wild camping under the vast African skies and trekking with camels across the desert’s varied terrain.

Among the adventurers are Sharon Atkins, Chief Operating Officer of Faith in Families, and her son, Tom Atkins, Beth Thomas a trustee of the charity and mortgage advisor at Sturgess Mortgage Solutions. They are joined by Jo Carr, Senior Manager at Azets Swansea, Alison Somerfield, Laura Jones, Philip White, and Iwan Griffiths, each eager to take on the physical and mental challenge while raising vital funds for the charity’s work with disadvantaged families.

Starting on November 23, the team will traverse an impressive 100km through the rugged and breathtaking terrain of the Moroccan Sahara. From desert mountains and stony plateaus to oases filled with date palms and sculpted dry Wadis, the landscape will present both beauty and challenge. Each night, the group will set up camp in the dunes, under skies blanketed with stars, offering a unique and humbling experience of nature’s vastness.

The adventure will be crowned with a celebration at Ait Ben Haddou, a UNESCO World Heritage site and the iconic filming location for the movie Gladiator. Here, the team will stay in a distinctive hotel and toast their achievement with a special celebratory meal, marking the end of their remarkable journey.

The trek is not just a personal challenge for the participants but a significant fundraiser for Faith in Families. The charity, which works tirelessly to support vulnerable children and families in Wales, will benefit greatly from the funds raised through sponsorship and donations, helping them continue their essential work in the community.

As they embark on this daring adventure, the team will not only face the physical demands of trekking through one of the world’s most challenging environments but will also experience the rich culture and awe-inspiring beauty of the Sahara. Their journey will be a testament to their determination and commitment to supporting families in need.

Those who wish to support the trekkers can visit the Faith in Families LocalGiving page https://localgiving.org/fundraising/FiF-Sahara-Trek-2024

This unforgettable experience promises to be a true test of endurance, camaraderie, and dedication to a vital cause, as the team walks through the heart of the desert to make a difference for families in Swansea.

About The Team

Hi, I’m Sharon – The Trailblazing Team Leader!

As COO of Faith in Families, I’m used to tackling challenges—but this one’s a little different! I’m swapping our Community Cwtch’s for the sand dunes to lead the Sahara Trek, a 100km adventure through the desert. It’s all to raise funds for families and communities very close to my heart.

I’m looking forward to proving that, together, we can overcome anything. It’s not just about the trek—it’s about making a real difference for the people who need us most. With grit, determination, and a bit of sunscreen, I’m ready to take on the dunes. Wish me luck!

Hi, I’m Tom – The Sahara Sidekick!

I’m joining my mum, Sharon, on the Sahara Trek—though the real test might be keeping up with her! This 100km challenge isn’t just about crossing the desert; it’s about supporting Faith in Families and showing we’re up for anything.

My Mum has worked for Faith in Families ever since I was a baby, and I have grown up hearing all about the difference that the projects make to local families. I’m ready to take on the dunes and maybe sneak ahead when she’s not looking. Here’s to an epic adventure!

Hi I’m Beth Thomas from Sturgess Mortgage Solutions.

I’m taking on the extreme challenge of trekking the scorching dunes to raise vital funds for Faith in Families. While I’m used to advising people on the best financial decisions, this trek is a whole new kind of challenge – one that’s pushing me to my physical and mental limits, all in the name of an incredible cause.

Faith in Families works tirelessly to strengthen families, offer support to vulnerable children, and create life-changing opportunities for those who need it most. As I navigate the harsh desert landscape, I’ll be thinking of those who are facing challenges much greater than my own, which makes every step worth it.

I’m committed to helping raise awareness and funds for this amazing charity, and I would love for you to be a part of this journey with me. Your support will directly contribute to the work Faith in Families does to make a real difference in people’s lives.

Hi, I'm Jo Carr from Azets Swansea.

I’m Jo from Azets Swansea, and I’m trading spreadsheets for sand dunes to support Faith in Families! I’m so excited (and a little nervous!) to take on this incredible desert challenge, but it’s all for a cause that’s close to my heart—helping families in need across Swansea Bay. By stepping out of my comfort zone, I’m hoping to make a real difference for those who need it most.

Together, we can bring hope and brighter futures to children and families in our community. Let’s do this!

Hi, I'm Alison Somerfield from Old Oak Insurance Brokers Ltd

I’m Alison and work at Old Oak Insurance Brokers Ltd for over 20 years. I live on a working farm with my family on the outskirts of Llandeilo and I will be trading the Brecon Beacons hills for the dunes of the Saharan Desert. I heard about this amazing Trek and Faith in Families Charity through my partner in crime Eira Mainwaring who unfortunately is no longer able to make the trip.

As well as wanting to raise funds for this great charity to eradicate child poverty, I’m also at that age where I can relate to how precious life is and to grab all opportunities that come your way, life is too short!

Hi, I'm Laura, Director at White and Jones Property.

I will be stepping out of my heels & my comfort zone to complete the 100k trek through the Sahara Desert, in support of this amazing local Charity, Faith in Families.

It’s going to be hard going, physically and mentally but it will certainly be an adventure.

I am proud to be supporting & helping to raise vital funds for such a great cause!

Hi, I'm Phil, I’m a carpenter in Swansea and own my own business, Whites Carpentry.

I’m married and a father to 3 children and have 2 dogs. When I was invited to take part in the Sahara Trek, I jumped at the chance with it being such a good cause to help the community. Over the last 9 months it has given me something to focus on and I’ve enjoyed the experience so far in regards to nagging friends, family and clients to raise as much money as possible. The training and getting myself into a fitter position both physically and mentally has helped me to achieve some personal goals along the way. Now I feel ready for the main event (hopefully).