#TeamPratham at the London Marathon

On Sunday 26 April, Team Pratham UK will be taking to the streets of London for the London Marathon.

Our team of runners is helping us deliver life-changing learning, skills training and second chances to millions across India. Be part of their journey and support education that transforms lives.

Behind each of them is months of training through dark mornings, busy schedules, and long miles. Together, they’re raising funds to support our mission: helping every child learn well.

If you’re in London, come along and cheer them on!

Meet #TeamPratham

Anish Goel

Hi, I’m Anish from Surrey and I’m excited to be running the London Marathon on behalf of Pratham. I graduated from university in July 2024, and after working for a year, I’m now back to studying, completing my Master’s at HEC Paris.

I found out about Pratham at an event earlier this year and was drawn not only to the meaningful mission but also to their effectiveness and strategy as a charity. I’m excited to raise money for such an important cause like education. The training and race itself will be a challenge for sure, but I’m looking forward to (hopefully) crossing the finish line in April.

Atul Kumar

I’m incredibly honoured to be running the 2026 London Marathon in support of a cause that is close to my heart. Running has been an important part of my life for many years, taking me from local 5K races all the way to endurance events of up to 50K. For me, running is more than just a sport. It’s a way to challenge myself, build resilience, and stay connected to a larger community.

Beyond running, I’m passionate about giving back and supporting others, especially children and families in need. I regularly volunteer in my community, including supporting initiatives such as my local food bank, where I’ve had the opportunity to help families facing difficult times. Contributing to causes that create opportunities and support for children is something I deeply believe in.

Professionally, I work full-time while also being a proud parent of two amazing kids who inspire me every day to lead by example, showing them the value of perseverance, compassion, and community service. Running the London Marathon is not only a personal milestone but also a meaningful way to combine my love for running with my commitment to helping others.

Bharat Shah

The email dropped. I’m invited to run the London Marathon. My first marathon ever.

At first I was thrilled, then reality set in. The training through winter in the dark and cold, the risk of injury, the long time away from home.

But the chance to help children gain an education keeps me going and gives every mile meaning. My father passed away two years ago and he was always passionate about supporting education. We made a donation from his estate to Pratham, and running this marathon feels like a way to continue his legacy.

Kiran Banerjee

My name is Kiran Banerjee. I am a trainee solicitor at a corporate law firm in London. My parents are originally from India and South Africa, so my mixed heritage provides a personal connection to Pratham’s mission. Outside of work, I am a keen Formula 1 fan, hockey player, fragrance collector, and hiker.

I’m running this marathon for Pratham UK to help give children in India the education they deserve. Pratham’s work and evidence-based approach has already transformed millions of young lives, and I want to support that momentum. This marathon is a personal challenge, but it’s also an opportunity to do something meaningful for others. I’m proud to dedicate my run to such an impactful cause.

Laksh Mahajan

I’m Laksh, a first-year undergraduate at King’s College London studying Computer Science. I love to take every opportunity in sight, so when the ballot opened, despite never running long-distance, I signed up in a heartbeat. A few months later, I’m deep into my training journey and feel privileged to be able to fundraise for such an amazing cause.

Pratham’s mission aligns closely with my values, supporting youth education, women, and many other initiatives across India and beyond. Taking on my first marathon is a huge personal challenge, pushing me beyond limits I once thought I had. But it also puts things into perspective. It remains incomparable to the struggles many young people face when access to education is out of reach. Funds raised can help change the trajectory of their lives, one child at a time.

 

The coach behind the journey

We’re incredibly grateful to have Daz Red (AYU Endurance) volunteering his time to coach and support our runners throughout their training.

Daz is an endurance coach and age-group athlete with a wealth of experience across multiple sports, including American football, rugby, kickboxing, and judo. Following a near-fatal crash in 2010, he faced years of physical challenges before returning to fitness through running. His journey led him to qualify for Team GB in Sprint Duathlon and achieve a world ranking in his age group.

He takes a thoughtful, individual approach to coaching, recognising that no two runners are the same. From first-timers to experienced athletes, he’s been a constant source of guidance and encouragement. We’re very
lucky to have him.

Support the team

Every mile they run is powered by something bigger.

If you’re in London on Sunday 26 April, come and cheer on Team Pratham UK. Your support on the sidelines will carry them further than you might imagine.
📌Cheer Point brief.

If you can’t be there in person, you can still be part of this journey. Back their efforts, share their stories, and help them go the distance.
Support their journey on JustGiving.

Every pound raised helps deliver the joy of learning.