Epic Ride Across Africa - Launch Day for Cycle 5 to Survive

What an unforgettable day!

Cycle 5 to Survive's big launch day in Ethiopia began in Korah, where a huge crowd of friends from the community gathered to cheer on P.L. and Kristen Meindertsma as they set off on their incredible journey. Their 6,600 km cycling adventure will take them all the way to Cape Town. We wanted to send them off in a meaningful way as they begin this epic adventure, raising funds and awareness for five charities—including Hope for Korah!

The morning was filled with music, celebration, warm-up exercises, and a special blessing from elders in the Korah community. P.L. and Kristen were also presented with gabis, traditional Ethiopian blankets that symbolize deep respect and honour.

After a 10 km ride through Addis Ababa, they crossed the finish line at the historic Adwa Memorial Victory Park, where another joyful celebration awaited them. Supporters, friends, and members from partner organizations, along with government officials, representatives from the Authority of Civil Society Organizations, and the Commissioner of the Addis Ababa Police Department, gathered to mark this memorable occasion. The event was hosted by the well-known Ethiopian TV personality Mr. Zik and featured the premiere of a Hope for Korah documentary, inspiring speeches, testimonies from Hope for Korah university students, and a traditional Ethiopian coffee ceremony.

We are so grateful for the incredible awareness this event brought to Hope for Korah and our mission.

A heartfelt thank you to the Commercial Bank of Ethiopia for generously sponsoring this amazing event. Thank you as well to the talented team at Omniiicore for beautifully capturing the day through your photography and videography. Finally, a huge thank you to our incredible Country Director, Sosena, and our dedicated Hope for Korah staff. Your planning and hard work made this celebration a truly memorable day. 

Please continue to pray for P.L. and Kristen as they continue their journey across Africa.

We're cheering them on every kilometre of the way!