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‘In honour of my Mum’: Purple Wave for an amazing cause

30 Mar 2026

Challenge accepted by Saeed

Smiling headshot of Saeed

I’m Saeed, and I’m a Client Relations Manager at the Executive Education Centre. This year, I’m taking part in my very first Purple Wave, and I’m really looking forward to it!

I’ve always loved staying active and getting involved in everything the University has to offer. For me, being part of the UoM community is about more than just work. It’s about meeting new people, making connections, and giving something back. The Purple Wave felt like the perfect way to do all of that at once.

Why I’m Running

I’m fundraising for dementia research in honour of my amazing Mum. Watching the impact of dementia first-hand has been incredibly tough, and it’s something that stays with you. But it’s also made me more determined to support the scientists and researchers working toward a cure.

Every step I take on race day will be for her - her strength, her resilience, and everything she’s taught me. If supporting this cause can help even one family facing the same journey, then it’s worth every mile. 

Training and Fundraising

Training is going well. Completing the Liverpool Half Marathon recently has kept me in great shape and given me a real confidence boost for the challenge ahead. Fundraising is off to a strong start too, but I’m still pushing to reach my final goal. Every bit of support genuinely helps.

Thinking About Signing Up?

If you’re on the fence about joining the Purple Wave, I’d definitely encourage you to go for it. However you choose to move, or even if you’re cheering from the sidelines, I’m sure it will be a brilliant day for everyone involved.

And if you do decide to take part, I can promise you this: crossing a finish line comes with an incredible sense of achievement.

Inspired to get involved?

  • As part of Challenge accepted - our major global fundraising and volunteering campaign - colleagues can secure a free Purple Wave entry by raising £100 for a cause they care about at Manchester. And for the first time, you can choose your own challenge.
  • Whether you want to back our new Student Basic Needs Centre, support scholarships for sports rising stars, or, like Saeed, choose a cause that’s extra meaningful to you - this is your chance to make a difference.
  • Sign up for your free fundraising place now!