Harriet Moore, Student Union Manager, sat down with BA(Hons) Textile Design student, Poppy Victory, to here all about the Shero Skydive she's taking part in, to raise money for local charity Trevi.
So, a skydive is pretty extreme! What made you want to it?
"I have never really given skydiving much thought as I am scared of heights, so I never imagined myself doing something like that! At the Reclaim the Night March, I was approached by a wonderful advocate from Trevi, telling me about fundraising for them and what they offer. I put my name down for the skydive and didn't give it much more thought again until they emailed me last week! I surprised myself and I am so excited for this adventure."
It's definitely an adventure! Have you ever done something like this before?
"I have never done anything this drastic before! I took part in fundraising walks including West Highland Way and Coast to Coast, and my Dad has raised money for cancer charities., but we've done nothing as extreme or perturbing as jumping out of a plane at 15,000 feet!"
Wow, 15,000 feet really puts it into perspective. How are you preparing for the big day?
"Staying calm and trying not to think about the fact I am going to be jumping out of a plane in two months! We will be given a training session on the day and then it's only up from there - no pun intended - but I am excited too, it is going to be a big step for me."
I bet. You must be feeling nervous about jumping out of a plane?
"Definitely. I am scared of heights so this is a big deal for me. After reflecting and setting intentions for the year ahead, I wanted to surprise myself and do things that are scary and seem big to me. I mean, why not now? I was planning to do something like this in the future, but the time is now!"
That's a great way to live life. Do you think this experience will change you in any way?
"I’m hoping it will continue to give me the confidence to get out of my comfort zone and face things that scare me in the future, no matter how big or small the fear is. I feel the best way to build one's sense of self and character is to do it scared, and because it scares you."
And what do you think your reaction will be once you land?
"Relief and pride. Once I am back on the ground, I will be overwhelmed with how proud I am for facing my fears and doing it! Plus a little relieved that it's over and maybe a little shocked that I just jumped out of a plane! I am hoping that the views will be stunning."
Oh, they definitely will be. Once your feet are back on the ground, how are you going to celebrate?
"Dance! I will probably be dancing when I get to the field, it brings me a lot of joy. And maybe going to the pub with my friends after."
Can you tell me a bit about why you choose to raise money for Trevi specifically?
"Trevi’s mission is so important, especially with what is happening in the streets around us. Violence against women affects too many of us and it has to stop! Hearing about others' stories, and also my own experiences, feed this anger and want for change too. Trevi does wonderful things including supporting women who are affected by abuse, violence and substance abuse. They support women and their families within the community, keeping that at the heart of their values. The events they hold are inspiring and are spreading the word about an issue which is very prominent in today's world. They create a safe space for women and unite us together to stand up for change and to make our voices heard."
They do some wonderful work. Do you have a specific amount in mind that you're hoping to raise?
"I am hoping to raise £500 for Trevi, but if we pass that goal that would be amazing! Anything helps, so donating and or sharing around to people you know would be amazing! Thank you."
You can donate to Poppy's fundraiser here.
One last question for you. How can people get involved with your fundraiser, or even start their own fundraiser?
"If people want to get involved in my fundraiser, they can donate to my Just Giving, Plus, I am also thinking about organising a bake sale on campus so it would be amazing if anyone could bake their favourite treat for the sale! As for wider involvement, Trevi runs fundraising events regularly where you can sign up, they have more information on their website under ‘get involved’.
If you are interested in getting involved with Poppy's fundraiser, please contact her via email at pv10708883@aup.ac.uk.
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