A group of Forth Valley College colleagues will pull on their walking shoes this month as they take part in the Dundee Kiltwalk to raise money for a range of charities close to their hearts.
Suzie Learmonth, Denise Browning, Agnieszka Skrzynska, Mandy Kirk and Karolina Drabinska will take on the challenge on Sunday 16 August 2026, joining thousands of participants for the annual fundraising event which starts in St Andrews and finishes in Dundee.
While taking part together as a team, each colleague has chosen to support a cause that is close to their heart and has personal significance to them. Four of the group are raising funds for their chosen organisations, while Karolina Drabinska is using the challenge to raise awareness of the 1333 Grangemouth Spitfire Squadron and the legacy of the Polish pilots who trained at RAF Grangemouth during the Second World War.
Suzie Learmonth, Department Administrator (STC) said: "While we have all signed up to do the Kiltwalk this year, we have each chosen different charities. I am walking the Mighty Stride on behalf of Breast Cancer UK as this charity is very personal to my family.
"My mother-in-law and my cousin are both currently battling breast cancer, and I have a strong feeling of helplessness when I see them putting up such a strong fight but there is little I personally can do to make that easier for them. I decided that doing the Kiltwalk for this charity is something I can do, and I am keen to raise as much money as possible for this vital and worthwhile charity both for my relatives, but for everyone who is dealing with breast cancer."
Agnieszka Skrzynska, Process Improvement Manager (Information Systems) said: "I want to support stem4 because, as a teenager, I experienced eating disorders and mental health issues myself. I know how isolating and overwhelming those struggles can feel, and I also know how much the right support can make a difference.
"I'm taking part in the Kiltwalk to raise money for mental health charities because it's a cause that means a lot to me. It's also a reminder of the mental strength I've built through my own journey, and I'd love to use that experience to help other young people feel heard, understood and hopeful."
Denise Browning, Student Administration Officer (Fees) said: "I’ve chosen to support Macmillan Cancer Support through the Dundee Kiltwalk because cancer affects so many people, whether personally or through family, friends, and colleagues. Macmillan provides invaluable support to people facing cancer, helping them navigate some of the most challenging times in their lives.
“Taking part in the Kiltwalk is a great way to raise funds for this fantastic charity, while challenging myself and contributing to a cause that makes a real difference to individuals and families across the UK."
Karolina Drabinska, Department Administrator (Apprenticeship, Skills and Commercial) said: "I chose 1333 Grangemouth Spitfire Squadron due to more of a nostalgic reason. Every mile of my 20 mile Kiltwalk honours a legendary wartime alliance. RAF Grangemouth was the vital training ground for the heroic Polish pilots who flew Spitfires with unmatched bravery to defend Britain in WW2.
"By supporting them I am keeping their memory alive and hopefully empowering the youth leaders, their skills and experience. I feel this organisation presents the past, present and the future of multicultural bravery."
Mandy Kirk, Learning Skills and Resource Assistant (Inclusion and Student Services) said: "The charity I am supporting is Shelter. This is close to my heart because I volunteer for the homeless shelter in Glasgow and I have seen firsthand the impact that being homeless can have on someone. I believe we should all have a home – a safe place to return to.
"The Kiltwalk is a worthwhile event because it allows me to challenge myself but to also be part of a community and to give back to others less fortunate."
Anyone wishing to support the team's fundraising efforts can donate via the links below:
- Suzie Learmonth (Breast Cancer UK): https://bit.ly/4xgOKlL
- Agnieszka Skrzynska: (stem4): https://bit.ly/4pUXRpM
- Denise Browning (MacMillan Cancer Support): https://bit.ly/3Sh5I4G
- Mandy Kirk: (Shelter): https://bit.ly/4himXNm
- Karolina Drabinska (1333 Grangemouth Spitfire Squadron - find out more): https://bit.ly/4z1B5Rl
The Dundee Kiltwalk takes place on Sunday 16 August 2026, with participants raising funds for charities and community organisations across Scotland.
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