A fundraising initiative led by Elior at Work’s Marius Coste brought a message of hope, inclusion and community spirit to Aberdeen this summer, supporting local charity Clan Cancer Support.
Marius Coste, Group Cleaning Manager at Elior UK and the person behind Miles of Smiles, took part in this summer’s Celebrate Aberdeen Parade in an eye-catching giant inflatable heart-with-wings costume, helping raise awareness of the work of Clan Cancer Support.
The annual parade brought together businesses, charities, community groups and individuals from across the region, celebrating the organisations and people who contribute to the North-east.
For Marius, the event was an opportunity to combine community engagement with his ongoing commitment to charitable fundraising, encouraging conversations about cancer support, mental health and the importance of looking after one another.
Miles of Smiles was established in 2021 following a deeply personal family loss. Determined to turn adversity into something positive, Marius began a fundraising journey centred on supporting people and families facing difficult circumstances.
Since its launch, the initiative has raised more than £12,700 for charitable causes, with ongoing support for SAMH and Clan Cancer Support. At the time of the parade, the challenge had covered 4,087 kilometres through running, walking and cycling, completing 64 consecutive weeks without missing a week.
The initiative’s message is simple: You Are Never Alone.
The parade also demonstrated the value of relationships across the local business and voluntary sectors, with support for Miles of Smiles extending across organisations including Sport Aberdeen, Albyn School, Aberdeen & Grampian Chamber of Commerce and Baker Hughes, alongside friends, family and colleagues.
Reflecting on the event, Marius said:
“It was a real privilege to be part of such a fantastic celebration of Aberdeen and its community spirit. The costume certainly attracted attention and brought plenty of smiles, but the message behind it is what matters most.
“Sometimes, making a difference doesn’t require grand gestures or the perfect words. It starts with showing up, listening, checking in on someone and reminding them that they are not alone.
“I am incredibly grateful to Clan Cancer Support, the Celebrate Aberdeen team and everyone who continues to support Miles of Smiles. The encouragement of local organisations, businesses, colleagues, friends and family makes this journey possible.”
Through his professional role at Elior UK and his work in the community, Marius hopes to continue encouraging collaboration, raising awareness and demonstrating how individuals can make a positive contribution beyond their workplace.
The journey continues, with Miles of Smiles remaining committed to supporting SAMH and Clan Cancer Support through fundraising, community engagement and the simple power of spreading kindness.
Miles of Smiles – Turning pain into purpose. One mile, one smile, one life at a time.
You Are Never Alone.