Connecting Communities Through Running: A Journey of Solidarity and Inclusion
Thursday 12 December 2024
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In the last months of 2024, our colleagues embraced running not only as a sport but as a vehicle for community support, environmental sustainability, and social inclusion. From Palermo to Banja Luka, Verona to Prague, the spirit of teamwork and shared values united us all. Each race highlighted unique local causes while connecting us with a common purpose: making a positive impact through collective effort. Let’s take a closer look at four standout events.
Palermo Marathon: Running Through Art and Sustainability
On November 17, the 29th Palermo Marathon saw a record-breaking 2,300 participants from over 50 countries. Athletes raced through the UNESCO-listed streets of Palermo, blending sport with culture, as they passed iconic landmarks like the Teatro Massimo and Palazzo dei Normanni.
UniCredit, the event’s Main Sponsor since 2008, brought over 100 colleagues to participate, with a special competition honoring two late colleagues, Giuseppe Battaglia and Maurizio Fragale, both avid runners. Beyond the finish line, the marathon championed environmental and social sustainability: initiatives included a partnership with Plastic Free for waste recycling and a project to provide mobility solutions for disabled youth.
Orange the World Day in Banja Luka: Steps Against Violence
On November 24, our colleagues in Banja Luka joined the Orange the World Day race at Mladen Stojanović Park. Organised as part of the global “16 Days of Activism Against Violence Against Women and Girls,” this event was a powerful reminder of the urgent need for action and advocacy.
Through their participation, UniCredit employees supported “Perpetuum Mobile – Institute for Youth and Community Development,” amplifying efforts to build a safer world for women and girls. Braving the cold, every step taken symbolised hope and solidarity, embodying UniCredit’s commitment to inclusion and social impact.
The Marcia del Giocattolo in Verona: Running for Children
UniCredit proudly partnered with the Marcia del Giocattolo (Toy March) in Verona on December 8, transforming the race into an act of solidarity for children in need. Participants of all ages joined the celebration, blending holiday cheer with the opportunity to make a tangible difference in young lives.
This beloved event combined the joy of giving with the inclusiveness of sport, reinforcing UniCredit’s longstanding tradition of empowering communities. The funds raised will support local initiatives to bring hope and happiness to countless children, demonstrating how running can spread warmth far beyond the racecourse.
CZ Relay Race: Teamwork on the Run
In Prague, teamwork shone brightly at the UniCredit CZ Relay Race around the Philadelphia building. Over 100 colleagues, including the Board of Directors, joined forces on the 4x1500m course, highlighting the importance of collaboration both on and off the track.
With partners like Škoda Auto and RunCzech, the event fostered camaraderie and celebrated the collective effort that defines UniCredit’s culture. CEO Jakub Dusílek’s enthusiastic participation exemplified leadership through action, making the relay a true celebration of unity and shared purpose.
Across each event, running became a metaphor for shared goals and collective achievements. Whether advocating for safety, inclusion, or sustainability, UniCredit’s involvement in these races showcased the power of sport to unite, inspire, and drive meaningful change.
At UniCredit, we believe in the transformative potential of teamwork whether crossing the finish line or facing challenges in our daily lives. These races reflect our values of Integrity, Ownership, and Caring, demonstrating how every step we take, together, can create a brighter future for our communities.