A young boy's journey of resilience and hope is helping raise awareness for the charities supported by the UK’s largest family fundraising festival.
Eleven-year-old Ravi Adelekan from Brighton was named an ambassador for CarFest’s Do More Good Week, which ran from May 4 to May 10.
The campaign, created in 2019 by CarFest founder and broadcaster Chris Evans, shines a light on the real-life impact of funds raised through the festival, which has generated more than £28 million for UK children’s charities since it began.
Mr Evans said: "CarFest has always been about more than just a great weekend, it’s about coming together to make a genuine difference.
"Do More Good Week is our chance to shine a light on the incredible young people and families at the heart of everything we do.
"Every ticket bought, every experience enjoyed, helps support these life-changing charities, and we’re so proud of what we’ve been able to achieve together."
CarFest was launched in 2012 with the sole purpose of raising money for children’s charities.
Ravi, who was diagnosed with a brain tumour at the age of six, underwent 10 hours of surgery followed by a year of intensive rehabilitation.
He was left with facial palsy, hearing and sight loss on one side, a hand tremor, and balance difficulties.
He also struggled with confidence.
The Ellen MacArthur Cancer Trust, one of CarFest’s supported charities, helped Ravi and his parents, Bethan and Gbenga Adelekan, regain independence and meet other young people who shared similar experiences.
He said: "Going through treatment changed a lot for me, and afterwards it wasn’t always easy getting my confidence back.
"Taking part in the Ellen MacArthur Cancer Trust trip helped me feel independent again and meet other young people who understood what I’d been through.
"I’m really proud to be part of Do More Good Week and help show how much support like this can mean."
Ellen MacArthur from Ellen MacArthur Cancer Trust said: "It’s fantastic to see Ravi representing the Ellen MacArthur Cancer Trust at CarFest this year.
"Ravi is just one of hundreds of young people who have been able to join one of our life-changing sailing adventures."
