2025 Jinji Lake Charity Walkathon
On Saturday the 25th of October, the 2nd Jinji Lake Charity Walkathon brought together over 350 members of the Dulwich Suzhou community: students, parents, alumni's parents, staff, and friends, for a morning filled with health, happiness, and heartfelt giving. At date, the event has raised a total of RMB 16842.25.
Organised by the Boarding team of Dulwich International High School Programme Suzhou, the event once again turned the banks of the scenic Jinji Lake into a path of purpose, as participants walked to support Siyuan Operation Smile, raising funds to provide surgeries and recovery support for children with cleft conditions.
Our Assistant Head (Boarding), Mr. Simon Johnston shared: “Today's Dulwich Walkathon is all about walking for a cause and supporting Operation Smile, so we are hoping that all 350 people who have signed up are going to have a wonderful time, and something to remember forever.”
A Day of Energy and Empathy
From the lively warm-up session led by Kowloon Hospital to the laughter that filled every checkpoint, the event celebrated togetherness at every step.
Participants enjoyed a variety of mini challenges and photo stops around the lake, from smiling selfies and skipping contests, to balance board challenges and quiz games.
Each completed checkpoint added a puzzle piece to the commemorative Walkathon keychain, a symbol of teamwork and achievement. Participants who completed all five checkpoints received their puzzle keychains.
The top 10 finishers were rewarded with a Dulwich souvenir pack. But beyond the prizes, it was the sense of shared purpose and joy that made the day truly memorable.
Teachers, parents, and students all shared their reflections:
“This is my third year in Suzhou, but I’ve actually never walked all the way around the lake before, so it’s been a really great experience.”
“Happy I did it! it was a really great experience and special to be able to do it with my children as well. Fantastic time!”
A parent participant added, “This is my second time joining the Walkathon, and my son is joining me again this year, just like last time. We wanted to do something meaningful to support this good cause, and it’s also such a healthy and enjoyable activity.”
Community Spirit in Motion
The starting and finishing point at Jinji Lake was alive with colour and music, with nine community booths bringing joy and connection to the day: from Siyuan Operation Smile, Kowloon Hospital, SISU, WOWO Pets, and Sodexo, to Morton's Grille, Nine Degrees, Wa Dang Xia, and the DHSZ Merchandise Stall.
Kowloon Hospital's presence ensured everyone's safety with on-site medical guidance and first aid support, embodying the spirit of partnership that defines the Dulwich community.
Supporting Operation Smile
All registration proceeds (after costs) will be donated to Siyuan Operation Smile, supporting children with cleft conditions through surgery and rehabilitation. Every RMB 6,000 raised funds for one child’s operation, turning steps into smiles and compassion into action.
At the Siyuan Operation Smile booth, participants also took part in the “Sew an Elephant” activity: a gentle reminder that every stitch, like every step, can make a difference.
All the completed elephants have been carefully packed and are ready to begin their next journey: to be delivered to children awaiting surgery, serving as comforting companions that bring them courage and gentle warmth before their operation.
Every Step Counts
From laughter to reflection, from friendship to philanthropy, this year's Walkathon once again reminded us that community action creates lasting change.
Through this shared journey around Jinji Lake, our Dulwich community embodied the very values that define us: Responsibility in giving back, Empathy in caring for others, Collaboration in walking side by side, and International-Mindedness in uniting for a global cause.
A huge thank-you to everyone who joined, supported, and volunteered. Together, we walked for wellness, for kindness, and for smiles that last.
