Aberdeen’s business community continues to demonstrate the power of purpose-driven leadership.
This month, Marius Coste, Facilities Management professional with Elior UK, marks a major milestone in his ambitious 18-month Miles of Smiles Challenge — supporting SAMH and CLAN Cancer Support across the North-East.
November Highlights — Creativity, Community & Corporate Impact
November delivered some of the campaign’s most memorable and widely shared moments:
- A viral dash through Glasgow — running through the city on the back of a shark
- Festive community engagement — appearing as both the Grinch and Santa
- Supporting education — entertaining families at the Albyn School Christmas Fair
- Street-level engagement — spreading joy dressed as Spider-Man
Plus a major communications milestone:
First podcast appearance on Talk Susan – Sunny Govan Radio, alongside a featured interview with ACVO, Aberdeen’s third-sector interface.
Listen here:
https://www.mixcloud.com/TalkSusan/talk-susan-show-253-with-guest-marius-coste-running-for-samh-clan-cancer-music-is-scottish-themed/
These platforms help amplify critical conversations around mental health, resilience, kindness and community connection — values shared across the North-East business ecosystem.
Six-Month Progress Snapshot (Since June 2025)
- 1,688 km covered (running, walking & cycling)
- £2,400+ raised for SAMH & CLAN
- 143 cold showers | 35 cold dips
- 124,000+ impressions across LinkedIn & Instagram
- 33% of the journey complete
Strong momentum — powered by grassroots support and professional networks alike.
Business Meets Community
Marius credits his progress to his family, colleagues, and the North-East community who continue to show encouragement:
“Every wave, every message, every donation matters. Kindness is the fuel behind every mile.”
The challenge also reflects positively on the facilities management and catering sector — demonstrating how industry professionals can champion wellbeing, community involvement and social value.
Opportunities for Regional Businesses
Aberdeen & Grampian organisations are invited to get involved through:
- Corporate partnerships & sponsorship
- Hosting awareness events or wellbeing sessions
- Sharing campaign updates internally
- Team fundraising challenges
- Community outreach collaborations
A simple action can create outsized impact.