At Charity Challenge we are extremely proud of our amazing team. We know it can be a little daunting signing up for a challenge for the first time, so we thought you might like to meet the team in advance of your Charity Challenge. Today, we introduce you to our Head of Sales & Marketing and Challenge Leader, Jenn Payne.
How long have you worked for Charity Challenge?
I’ve just had my 6-year anniversary working with Charity Challenge. My day job is Head of Sales & Marketing, but I also like to get out on the challenges when I can and work as a Challenge Leader.
What’s been your favourite challenge (so far)?
This is a very tough question as every time I return from a challenge, I say that it is my favourite! As a Challenge Leader, I will never forget the year I worked on the CoppaTrek! with Gi Challenges in Northumberland and Mont Blanc. The groups that I trekked with will forever have a place in my heart. Trekking with these wonderful humans has honestly changed my perception on life. I’m so grateful I could be a part of their journey.
As a participant, some of my favourites are Trek to Petra, Icelandic Lava Trek, Trek to Machu Picchu, Costa Rica Coast to Coast and the Dalai Lama Himalayan Trek.
Do you have any challenges left on your bucket list?
All of them! I’ve already told my boss that I’m not leaving the company until I try them all! Next on my list is the Zambezi River Challenge – 100km paddle along the border with Namibia, Botswana and Zimbabwe, steadily heading for Victoria Falls where you’ll raft the most tempestuous rapids in the world. Yes please!
How do you keep your fitness in tip top shape for challenge season?
In challenge season, I just get outside as much as possible and train in various terrains with my all kit. I love a sauna, cold plunge and a bit of yin yoga after a big trek to loosen out the muscles. I’m a massive water baby so I swim regularly in my local lido, and jump into the sea or lakes whenever I get the chance. I’ve also recently started indoor climbing to help build up my strength and movement, and get the heart pumping when I’m not in the mountains!
What are your go to snacks to keep you fuelled and hydrated on a challenge?
Electrolytes, homemade trail mix with salted corn, Peruvian cacao & sour cherries, Candy Kittens, and Babybels!
I have learnt the lesson that you should bring your favourite snacks on a challenge! Before I set off on my Kilimanjaro trek, I thought I would be smart and only bring healthy snacks. What a huge mistake that was. When times get tough on a challenge, having your favourite snacks can make the world of difference. By the end of the challenge, I couldn’t face another seeded bar or energy ball for a very long time!
Any top tips to share with participants signed up to a challenge?
Put the effort in with your training before the challenge so you can enjoy every moment of the experience. These challenges are very special, and very addictive! You don’t want to be looking down the whole time; make sure you admire where you are and what amazing things you can achieve when you put your mind to it. Plus, don’t forget to talk to your fellow group members. You all have amazing stories to share, and the universe put you together on your challenge for a reason.
What 5 items do you always pack in your daypack?
Electrolytes, Charity Challenge buff, battery pack, Kinesiology Tape and hand warmers.
What is the best thing about being a leader?
I’ve been lucky enough to meet some truly amazing and inspiring people through Charity Challenge. I have so much admiration for anyone who decides to take on a challenge — it takes courage and heart! Watching people grow in confidence, resilience, and teamwork along the way is incredibly rewarding. For me, guiding them through the tough moments and celebrating their success at the finish line is what it is all about. Its one of my favourite feelings.
What is your proudest achievement to date?
I’m very lucky to have experienced lots of amazing moments and achievements throughout my life. It is one of my favourite things to do!
My proudest achievement is probably having the courage to leave a job that no longer served me in search of my dream job – enter Charity Challenge! As a result, I get to meet and support inspiring people every day, visit beautiful destinations and be a part of a company that is making a real difference. Magic!
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