Raees Gillani Treks Machu Picchu for Demelza

Demelza Fundraising Sees Head of Ai Take on Machu Picchu

From 21st – 30th September, Axis’ own Head of AI and Innovation Raees Gillani took on Machu Picchu to raise money for Demelza.

Demelza organise fundraising events and opportunities throughout the year, including big group adventures such a taking on Machu Picchu, the Paris Marathon, and the Demelza-to-Demelza bike ride. You can find out more about fundraising opportunities organised by Demelza here.

Raees incredible adventure saw him take on the challenge of hiking through the Andes to reach the famous lost city of the Incas!

His first two days of arriving in Cusco were challenging due to the altitude – however after became a fun and memorable journey! Describing it, Raees said ‘The views and steepness of the city were just incredible and the level of exposure to nature during the trail itself was very magical’.

The benefit of group fundraising is the support provided by other fundraisers; Raees explained ‘my fellow fundraisers were incredibly kind and supportive, encouraging everyone to keep going and to push through each day, with mini celebrations at each milestone’.

Raees and the whole group did an incredible job of fundraising; collectively raising over £136,504 for Demelza! You can also donate to Raees here. Well done to the whole team!

Describing the whole experience, Raees said ‘The Inca trail to Machu Picchu is very similar to what I imagine a religious pilgrimage to be like, a difficult journey that will never end but then culminates into something very profound and beautiful’.

It was an incredible experience and we’re so pleased Raees had an amazing time whilst fundraising! Good job, Raees!

If you would like to get involved in fundraising for Demelza, please contact vera.odriscoll@axiseurope.com