RUNNING 312km for create: dovile Eidimtaite’s story
In response to the widening inequality caused by the coronavirus pandemic, Dovile Eidimtaite – a soon-to-be primary school teacher – decided to fundraise for Create by running 312 kilometres over the summer. We spoke to Dovile about what inspired her to take on such a big challenge.
Why are you running 312 kilometres to raise money for Create?
I was thinking a lot about the distance I wanted to run. At first it was 100 km, then it was 200 km. I wanted the distance to mean something, so I decided to run the distance between Klaipeda and Vilnius, two cities in Lithuania where I’ve lived. That is why I’m running exactly 312 km for Create!
“The money you raise makes such a huge impact on children who really need it.”
Dovile eidimtaite
What does creativity mean to you?
I had an amazing upbringing at school, and I studied art and music professionally, so creativity has always been an important part of my life. I just finished training to be a primary school teacher in the UK and my dissertation explored creativity through music. Knowing that creativity is such an important part of all education has really inspired me. In the current climate, where creativity in the curriculum has been side-lined, I felt that it was important to shine a light on the importance of creativity.
How will you complete your challenge?
I think having a daily or weekly target for a big challenge is really good because you can look forward to it ending one day! I’m setting myself a target to run at least six kilometres every day, and racking up the number of kilometres I’ve run helps. I’m sharing my progress on Instagram. I post every two days, so the number goes down in bigger chunks – so far I’ve run 58 kilometres in just over a week.
What would you say to someone who is thinking of doing a fundraiser for Create?
I would say – DO IT! It is so rewarding for you and the charity. The money you raise makes such a huge impact on children who really need it, and this could change their lives, provide them with a feeling of belonging and inspire them to become the best version of themselves.