Marius Coste, leader at Elior at Work, has continued his Miles of Smiles challenge, combining his passion for wellbeing, community engagement and fundraising as he works towards completing an ambitious 82-week journey.
The challenge, which involves completing at least 50km every week in costume, was created to raise awareness and funds for mental health and cancer support charities SAMH and Clan Cancer Support, while encouraging open conversations around wellbeing.
Following a memorable family trip to China, Marius returned to Scotland and immediately continued the challenge by completing Aberdeen parkrun dressed as a Leprechaun. This followed an overseas chapter where he became Superman on the Great Wall of China, ran through the streets of Foshan and around the iconic Foshan TV Tower, facing temperatures of 35–38°C and humidity levels above 80%.
“Different country. Different costume. Same promise,” said Marius. “Miles of Smiles has never been just about kilometres or costumes. It is about creating smiles, encouraging conversations and reminding people that small acts of kindness can have a meaningful impact.”
The journey has now covered 3,750km, with Marius completing 284 cold showers and 61 cold dips as personal commitments to resilience, discipline and wellbeing. The challenge has raised more than £4,300 for SAMH and Clan Cancer Support, alongside an additional £7,000 previously raised for SAMH in 2021.
Through his role at Elior at Work, Marius is passionate about creating positive workplace cultures, supporting colleagues and highlighting the importance of mental health across communities.
“Whether it is a smile from someone watching a Leprechaun run through Aberdeen or a conversation started because of this challenge, the goal remains the same — to spread positivity, encourage openness and remind people they are never alone.”
As Miles of Smiles continues, Marius hopes the journey will inspire others to prioritise wellbeing, support each other and recognise the difference that encouragement and kindness can make.
From Scotland to China and back again, the scenery changes and the costume changes — but the purpose remains the same.