I've always believed in the power of community and giving back. So when the chance to participate in Cisco's VETS Global Give Back Week came up, it was a no-brainer for me.

I'm the VETS Inclusive Community Co-Lead for the United Kingdom and Ireland (UK&I). My commitment to this community is something that really drives me, both within and outside of my role, managing the CX Critical National Infrastructure+ team and practicing my leadership skills outside of my role.

The VETS community within Cisco is a vibrant and supportive network that is deeply rooted in the values of service and camaraderie. It is a collective of military veterans, reservists, partners, and allies dedicated to supporting one another and the broader community.

This Inclusive Community provides a space where experiences in the armed forces are honoured and the transition to civilian life can be navigated with the support of peers.

The VETS community's activities range from volunteering and fundraising, to helping people transition from the military to Civvy Street, all aimed at empowering veterans and contributing positively to society. Through initiatives like the Global Give Back Week in May 2024, the VETS community showcases its commitment to service, extending the military ethos into the fabric of Cisco's culture and beyond.

Pushing boundaries for VETS Global Give Back Week

May 2024 was the first-ever Global Give Back Week for VETS, an event encouraging the community's members to take part in virtual, physical, and individual challenges, raising awareness and funds for causes that are important to them.

In the U.K. and Ireland, we chose Scotty’s Little Soldiers, a charity dedicated to the welfare of children who have lost a parent serving in the U.K. Armed Forces.

It was decided that we would all take part in May Marathon, encouraging VETS members across the world to run or walk a marathon throughout the month of May for a cause that is important to them. Cisco’s wellbeing partner Pavelka joined us and offered a way to keep the event inclusive whilst helping our members with their well-being.

I’m known for pushing boundaries and regularly participating in ultra-endurance events. To ask people to support me, I needed to raise the stakes and do something very different, so I decided to complete the entire distance in one night, completing the event before anyone else in the world, and hopefully raising much-needed money for Scotty’s.

I embarked on my marathon at the stroke of midnight.

Pavelka’s support allowed us to do activities other than running, but with equivalent effort, and I chose to cycle half and run half. There's something quite surreal about exercising at midnight when it's just you and the night sky.

It was just my thoughts, the rhythm of my pedaling and footsteps, and the occasional wildlife scuttling away. The experience was as challenging as it was introspective, with the solitude of the night offering a stark backdrop to the cause at hand.

The night did throw me a few curveballs, though. Between battling a fog that made my headlamp almost redundant and navigating paths that seemed less familiar in the dark, the experience was a true test of endurance. But as I pedaled and jogged through those silent hours, I felt connected to something larger than a physical trial. I was running for those children who have faced unimaginable losses, and my resolve grew stronger with every mile.

What truly amazed me was the outpouring of support from our Cisco family.

Our VETS community, a group I hold in high regard for its camaraderie and shared values of service, really showed up. It was heartening to see donations coming in from colleagues near and far. The Global Give Back Week wasn't just about fundraising; it was about coming together as a global force for good.

This community at Cisco, one that understands the significance of service and backing each other, has always been a source of inspiration for me. During the May Marathon, when the challenge got tough, it was the thought of our collective effort and the impact we could make that kept me going. It's this spirit of togetherness that I believe truly sets the VETS Inclusive Community apart.

The marathon was more than just a physical accomplishment.

It was a demonstration of our shared commitment to making a difference. The funds I raised that night, which Cisco generously matched, went directly to supporting those kids who need it most. It's a clear illustration of the impact we can have when we pull together as a community.

Sharing this journey is my way of celebrating what Cisco’s VETS Inclusive Community achieved and the values we embody at Cisco. Our dedication to service, to going above and beyond, is what makes our company culture so unique. Whether we’re running marathons, volunteering, or lending a word of encouragement, every action counts.

A huge shoutout to every single person who took part in the Global Give Back Week. Your generosity is overwhelming.

It's moments like these that remind me why I'm proud to be part of the Cisco family. Let's keep this energy alive and continue to support one another and those around us, every single day.

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Related links

• Cisco Corporate Social Responsibility
• Cisco Purpose Report 2023
• Careers at Cisco