The class of 2025/26 has launched a fundraising campaign in support of Unseen Tours – a social enterprise that provides a platform for Londoners who have experienced homelessness or housing vulnerability to become professional tour guides.
To raise the £3,000 needed to support Unseen Tours' work, the cohort have set themselves a gruelling physical challenge to support a mission they believe "sits at the heart of tourism for good".
Together, they will collectively run, walk, swim and cycle the 3,000-mile distance from London to Athens by road by 13 May, with each member of the group committing to covering at least 100 miles.
All 30 future travel leaders will be seeking sponsorship from across the sector while raising awareness of Unseen Tours. The money will fund the creation of a new tour to add to the community interest company’s offering.
Unseen Tours is an award-winning social enterprise which began life in 2010 as The Sock Mob – a volunteer-led network which gifted warm socks to connect with people living on the streets.
Today, Unseen Tours helps vulnerably-housed individuals develop, curate and lead their own guided walks, turning their lived experience into professional expertise.
TTG's 30 Under 30 will run, walk, cycle and swim 3,000 miles in support of Unseen Tours
"We are taking on these miles to support a cause that changes lives on the streets we are walking,” said the group, who will get together on 12 May for a final push, covering their final few miles with Unseen Tours on one of its London routes.
“As travel professionals, we know storytelling is a powerful tool for connection," the group continued. "But for these guides, it is also a path to dignity and financial independence.
"Since its inception, the organisation has worked with more than 28 guides and welcomed thousands of guests, proving that tourism can be a vehicle for social inclusion.
"By supporting our 3,000-mile challenge, you are directly investing in this mission. Your donation ensures Unseen Tours can continue to provide the training and support necessary for these guides to share their unique perspectives of the capital."
To find out more about the 30 Under 30's chosen cause and to donate, visit their JustGiving page.
