Taking on the London Marathon is an incredible challenge, and we’re so grateful that four incredible Visa employees have chosen to run on April 26th in support of Outside Edge Theatre Company. By fundraising for Outside Edge, they are helping us continue to create safe, creative spaces where people can build confidence, connection, and hope through theatre.
Below, meet the runners and hear in their own words what inspired them to take on this journey and why supporting Outside Edge matters to them.
Hi, I’m Mekuria “Mac” Assefa, and I work at Visa as a Background Investigations Lead. I’m an avid runner who loves staying active and challenging myself, and running a marathon has been a long‑term goal of mine. After applying to the London Marathon ballot for years without success, I came across the opportunity to run through OETC thanks to a former Visa colleague connected to the charity.
When I learned more about Outside Edge Theatre Company, I was genuinely inspired by the work they do to support people affected by addiction through creativity and community. Their use of the Five Ways to Wellbeing (Connect, Be Active, Take Notice, Keep Learning, and Give) really resonated with me, as I believe these principles are powerful tools for positive mental health for all of us. I’m incredibly proud to be running the London Marathon in support of OETC and helping raise funds for the vital work they do.
Hello! Shwmae! I’m Anna, a 24‑year‑old Welshie living and working in London, and I’m thrilled to be running the 2026 London Marathon with OETC. Growing up in a family of theatre lovers, I’ve experienced firsthand the joy, inspiration, and electric energy that comes from the arts. I wholeheartedly believe in OETC’s vital work supporting people with substance misuse challenges by giving them a community rooted in exploration, authenticity, and humanness. I’m proud to wave the flag for this fantastic charity as I take on 26.2 miles on April 26th – any support to help get me over that finish line would mean the world to me and to the incredible network behind this group.
Thank you to all supporters who donated, including Mekuria Assefa, Anna Bevan, Juan Pena, Tash Tan, Eimear Fay, Chloe Doggett, Bailey Crupi, Ky Tran-Trong, Niall Quinn, Helen Mangan, Carmen Yip, Alejandro Garaizar, Reece Curtis, Amy Wong, Hannah Rollinson, Emily Floyd, Lynda Brown, David Bernstein, Samantha Stockdale, Jennifer Davies, Huong Hoang, Nicholas Martin, Declan Rydings, Daniel Farrar, Cora Constantin, Ricky Arnold, James Harrod, Amandeep Singh, Orla Furlong, Nina Garcia Lecuona and Javedhussain Syed. We also received donations from several individuals who would prefer to remain anonymous. Thank you for your support.
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