At Charity Challenge, we’re extremely proud of our brilliant head office team. In this Meet the Team feature, we’re delighted to introduce our experienced UK Operations Manager, Toni Howden, and share a little about her background, favourite challenges and top tips!
How long have you been part of the Charity Challenge team?
I joined Charity Challenge in May 2023, so I’m coming up to three years now.
What’s your role at Charity Challenge?
I’m a UK Operations Manager. A big part of my role is managing our National Three Peaks and Snowdonia events, overseeing the planning and logistics that sit behind the challenges to make sure everything runs safely and smoothly.
Tell us a little bit about your background and what you did before joining Charity Challenge?
I’ve worked in the outdoor industry for over 20 years. After studying Outdoor and Environmental Education at university, I opened my own adventure company in North Wales. I then spent the next decade leading overseas expeditions with teenagers across Central America, Southeast Asia, Africa and the Himalayas, which meant a lot of travel, a lot of fun, and more than a few interesting adventures along the way.
What do you enjoy most about your job?
I really enjoy the early planning stages, working out how everything is going to fit together. But the best part is being out on the events themselves, seeing it all come together and watching how much effort our participants have put in to get there.
What advice would you give someone who is looking to do a Charity Challenge?
Start training earlier than you think you need to. Train in the kit you’ll actually be using, especially your boots. Even if you can’t get into the mountains, get outside and build up steadily. Consistency makes a big difference. And once you’re on the challenge, you’ll have great support from our leaders.
What’s been your favourite Charity challenge (so far)?
We’ve had some memorable ones, but a bespoke challenge walking from London to Brighton really stands out. It was tough, but the group were incredible and their attitude made it a genuinely special event.
Do you have any challenges left on your bucket list?
Patagonia is definitely high on the list. My little boy is desperate to get out there too!
Tell us an interesting fact about yourself…
I missed my graduation to lead my first overseas expedition at 21 to Costa Rica and Nicaragua. I didn’t hesitate when I was offered the role, and it turned out to be one of the best decisions I’ve made. It set the direction for everything that followed.
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