Sustainability alumnus undertakes the two 'toughest races on earth'

25 April 2013

Nottingham University Business School alumnus Paul Gurney has embarked on what has been described as ‘probably the world’s toughest race’ to raise money for VSO (Voluntary Service Overseas) - a gruelling 400 mile challenge starting in Resolute Bay (Canada) and culminating at the Magnetic North Pole 6 weeks later. And, if dragging a 130kg sled for 10 hours a day wasn't enough, Paul will also have to be on his guard against polar bears, thin ice and frostbite in temperatures that could plummet to -80 centigrade. Then, on his return in May, Paul will immediately start training for the notorious Marathon Des Sables - a 150 mile ultra-marathon in the sweltering 50 centigrade heat of the Saharan desert.

Paul gained a first class BA Honours degree in Management Studies from Nottingham University Business School in 2001. He subsequently undertook an MA in Marketing, with support from a scholarship from the International Centre for Corporate Social Responsibility (ICCSR) and graduated with distinction. Paul's interest in sustainable business has continued to influence his thinking and career. Paul is a Senior Manager with Accenture Sustainability Services and still maintains his connection with the ICCSR as a Visiting Fellow. He was also instrumental in setting up the Accenture prize for the best business ethics student at Nottingham.

When asked why he was undertaking this punishing challenge, Paul explained "I find this an extremely hard question to answer but ultimately it is about challenging perceptions, inspiring others and doing something where the outcome is far from guaranteed." Paul describes supporting VSO’s skill building projects as a natural fit with his passion for building sustainability "I genuinely believe VSO's model of capacity building and skills sharing is the only way to fundamentally support countries and communities in the long term. The work many other charities do in terms of point interventions (e.g. food aid, medical supplies, disaster relief etc.) is all essential, but ultimately not sustainable. Focusing on truly building the skills of people in developing countries reduces the reliance on aid and support and provides the opportunities for people to lift themselves out of poverty."

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