Sarika Breeze, a consultant in the field of international relations and Business Operations Manager of the British Omani Society, who splits her time between Qurm, Muscat and Whitechapel, London, last week undertook the North Yorks Ultra Challenge – a 100km walk in 24 hours – to raise funds for the cause of Palestine. “Being a ‘bridge’ has led me to meet some of the most remarkable people I’ve ever known, including many Omani and British adventurers,” she tells Hubert Vaz

When most people think of endurance challenges, they picture months of training, blistered feet, and the determination needed to cross a finish line. For Sarika Breeze, the recent North Yorks Ultra Challenge – walking 100km in just 24 hours – was about much more than personal achievement. Taking on one of the UK’s toughest endurance events, Sarika set out to raise funds and awareness for Palestinian causes, combining physical resilience with a deep commitment to social impact.

Sarika’s journey has always been shaped by a strong connection between cultures, communities, and global issues. Having moved to Oman at the age of 18, she has built a career spanning international relations, geopolitics, cultural diplomacy, and creative projects that strengthen ties between Oman and the wider world. From working in a medical centre and bookshop during her gap year to writing policy papers and supporting international events, her path reflects a passion for people and purpose. In a free-wheeling chat , Sarika shares the motivation behind this challenge and the experiences that continue to inspire her work and activism.

What first inspired you to take on the North Yorks Ultra Challenge, and why did you choose to dedicate the effort to raising funds for Palestinian causes?

When my family and I discussed fundraising, there was never any doubt that it would be for Palestine (we are still welcoming donations at www.justgiving.com/page/breezes-map).

The Palestinian cause has significantly affected my friendships, consumer habits, media consumption, political activism, and work for years. We have a moral responsibility to act against the blatant injustice and profound human suffering. The resilience of Palestinians, Lebanese, and many others who have been denied their rights by Israel (and its backers) is extraordinary, and it provides hope for a just future. But we have an obligation to promote peace by taking whatever action we can to make this future a reality.

For my family, this action included a sponsored 50km/100km walk in Yorkshire. My mother and I walked our first 50km in 2017, from Jebal Samhan to the shores of Salalah. She and I have taken on several challenges since then, including 100km spread over two days in 2024 to raise money for Médecins Sans Frontières. But I had always hoped to challenge myself to hike 100km continuously. The North Yorks event was too good an opportunity to miss. It was in the north of England the day before the summer solstice, so there would be plenty of daylight, and my father and sister were joining my mother for the 50km challenge, leaving me to march on ahead.

Walking 100km in under 24 hours is as much a mental challenge as a physical one. What kept you moving forward?

Alongside the stunning scenery, I pushed forwards by occupying my mind with a few things – encouraging words from my family and friends who seem to have more faith in my abilities than I do, listening to Hamilton first, then audiobooks, and the reason I took on the challenge, Palestinian justice.

You grew up between cultures and moved to Oman at 18. How has that experience shaped your sense of identity?

I am lucky enough to have grown up in Oman, the Netherlands, Egypt, Turkey, the UK, and India, with short stints in Jordan, Australia, and Lebanon. Even though I turned out stubbornly monolingual, I have still somehow made ‘third culture kid’ central to my identity.

Exposure to other cultures is immensely valuable. When your surroundings are diverse, you get to experience new foods, new music, new customs, and this can create a stronger sense of self.

This challenge was deeply personal and physical. Did you learn anything about yourself that surprised you?

Judging by the comments of passersby, I learned that my friends may be justified when complaining about my walking speed. But in all seriousness, I expected to use the time to think about how my plans align with who I am and my goals. But taking the 121,663 steps to the finish line didn’t leave me with much energy to analyse my life choices.

Looking back at your stints at Al Harub Medical Centre and Let’s Read bookshop, can you identify any moments that influenced your path?

My gap year was when Muscat began to feel like home. I explored nature, met wonderful people, and began to appreciate the diversity within Oman. Some of my most vivid memories are of conversations at Al Harub about generosity, gender norms, and the complexities of seeking psychological support. I also did part of my year abroad in Muscat at the Omani British Society, working with people whose independence of thought, resourcefulness, and hospitality inspire me to this day. This experience did change the trajectory of my life.

You’ve spent years helping build connections between Oman and the UK through projects/events. What do you enjoy most about being a bridge between different communities?

I enjoy improving people’s understanding of the region. At age nine, I shocked my friends by explaining that I didn’t live in a tent or take a camel to school in Egypt. And now, I like to watch as visitors realise how off base they were to assume Oman would be dangerous, topographically bland, or heaving with skyscrapers.

Being a ‘bridge’ has also led me to meet some of the most remarkable people I’ve ever known, including many Omani and British adventurers, who inspired me last weekend.

During this challenge, did you have any memorable encounters?

I had some barely coherent conversations, amusing encounters with cows, and a cheese toasty which, at that moment, felt like the single greatest achievement in human history. But the memory that will stay with me forever is simply watching as the sun set over the misty valleys and vast moors.

What did this experience teach you about generosity, and human connection?

Because my mother and I did a sponsored walk two years ago, I was nervous about asking for donations again. But we’ve managed to raise RO3,000. I’m overwhelmed by everyone’s generosity and grateful for the heartwarming moments of connection with best friends, bridge partners, and distant acquaintances alike. The experience reminded me that every little really does help, and even where people aren’t able to donate, directing attention to the injustice facing Palestinians is valuable.

After completing 100km in 24 hours, what’s next?

TBC! But this definitely won’t be my last challenge.

What message do you have for young people in Oman who want to make a positive impact?

Simply put, don’t give up. Those who benefit from systems of injustice rely upon us losing hope or focus. They see our advocacy as a threat, and need apathy and inaction to maintain the status quo. So, use your platform. Use your talent. Be smart about where your money goes. Collective action has been the vehicle of countless justice movements throughout history. You have the power to make a difference.

I would also encourage the youth to find people who share the same values, enhance your perspectives, and lift you up when the weight feels overwhelming.