Thirty-six employees from UK Power Networks took part in the Palace-to-Palace challenge, cycling 50 miles from London to Surrey to raise money for The King's Trust. Setting off at 8am on a misty autumn morning, the team collectively raised £9,149 to help tackle youth unemployment across the UK.
The King's Trust supports young people by providing opportunities, training and confidence-building programmes intended to help them start careers and build brighter futures.
The cause is a personal one for Cesar Ruiz, one of the company's energy data scientists and a participant in the ride. It was the second fundraising event he has completed in support of the charity. While studying in 2021, Ruiz received a scholarship that helped fund his education and pursue his career goals.
Ruiz described taking part as an unforgettable experience, calling the charity fantastic and the ride a good opportunity to spend time with colleagues while giving something back to society. He said he had been fortunate to receive a scholarship while studying, and that it means a lot to now help provide similar opportunities for other young people, noting that he understands what it feels like to be in that position and that such support can make a real difference.
The event coincides with the 50th anniversary of The King's Trust, marking five decades of helping young people develop skills, confidence and opportunities.