“They’ve literally run for their lives”: deVere CEO on running for Ukraine’s refugees

Now is the time to recommit to help the quarter of Ukraine’s population who have fled the conflict and now have to try and rebuild their lives, affirms the marathon-running, fitness-obsessed CEO of a global financial services giant.

The call-to-action from Nigel Green of deVere Group, one of the world’s largest independent financial advisory, asset management and fintech companies, comes as Ukraine’s President Zelensky says the war has entered a “new phase” amid Russian forces’ attack along a broad front in the east as part of a full-scale ground offensive.

The ongoing brutal war is why the high-profile CEO is about to take on La Valette Marathon in Malta on Sunday April 24 to support those displaced by the Russia-Ukraine war.

“More than 10 million have had to literally run for their lives. Petrified, they were dodging bombs, shelling, tanks.

“My running La Valette marathon is a symbolic way that I can raise funds for those families who now have to start over from scratch.

“To maximise the funds raised, I will personally double whatever people donate.”

The issue is personal for Nigel, who works out every single day of the year to maintain his fitness levels.

He says: “Having had business operations in Ukraine and across the whole region for many years, we have direct contact with families whose lives have been destroyed by this war. We will work directly with them, where possible, alongside non-governmental organisations.

“We’re asking you to take your chance to make a huge, positive impact on the lives of innocent children and families.”

Of the symbolism of running a marathon, the deVere boss adds: “Running is about perseverance, determination, about putting one foot in front of the other, and keeping on keeping on. It’s about becoming a better version of ourselves.

“With the money raised we can help those families who literally ran for their lives – and not in a safe, secure environment, surrounded by support and encouragement like we will be in Malta – have a better tomorrow for themselves and their loved ones.

“It’s not about getting the fastest time on the clock, about being an elite athlete. It’s about doing our bit. It’s about community.”

Donations can be made here: https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/deveresupportsukraine

Nigel Green concludes: “I have a choice in doing this run, but the refugees we’re going to support who fled the war had no choice.

“Let’s help give them a brighter future. A future of choices.”