Shadows Of Light CiC is celebrating a hugely successful recent community event, with 30 attendees joining on the day and five apologies received. Feedback was described as “amazing”, with participants expressing strong interest in making the gatherings a regular quarterly feature.
The positive response highlights the growing appetite for supportive, inclusive spaces that bring local people together and spark meaningful conversations. Following the success of the event, plans are now underway to explore future dates and continue building on this momentum.
BBC Radio 4 Appearance
The organisation also recently received national recognition after being invited to appear on BBC Radio 4, speaking with Anna Foster during a broadcast at around 11am on Wednesday.
During the interview, the discussion focused on the work being carried out within local communities, as well as the Tokyo Marathon challenge in support of Street Child.
Running the Tokyo Marathon for Street Child
On 1 March, Natasha Pollock took on the Tokyo Marathon, marking her 12th marathon and one of the most meaningful challenges she has undertaken.
The aim of the run was to raise £4,000 for Street Child, driven by a deep commitment to ensuring children growing up in poverty have access to safety, stability and a decent education, particularly those at risk of homelessness and exclusion.
Street Child’s mission to keep children safe, in school and learning closely aligns with Natasha’s professional and personal dedication to advocating for marginalised children and young people.
Education, she believes, is about far more than the classroom. It provides security, hope and the opportunity to build a future beyond immediate hardship.
Discipline, Determination and Community Support
Training for a 12th marathon required discipline, long-term planning and resilience, particularly when balanced alongside full-time professional responsibilities. Reaching the £4,000 fundraising target has also involved engaging others, building relationships and motivating supporters around a shared cause.
The experience reinforces a powerful belief that lasting impact comes from commitment, perseverance and collective effort over time. These are the same values that underpin ongoing work to drive positive change for children, families and communities facing significant challenges.
Those wishing to support the fundraising efforts for Street Child can donate via the JustGiving page:
https://www.justgiving.com/page/natasha-pollock-6
