Tracey Layt is stepping up for tamariki by taking on the Brighter Future’s Challenge – a Great Wall of China walk to raise vital funds for Barnardos Aotearoa What’s Up helpline for children and young people.

A special education teacher for 29 years, Tracey is no stranger to Barnardos. She has been a regular donor over the past three years and shares a personal connection to Barnardos, where she had her first teaching placement while studying to become an early childhood education teacher at Barnardos Early Learning Porirua.

“Children are my passion. I believe all children should have the right to thrive, regardless of their circumstances or abilities, and they need support for that to happen,” says Tracey.

This opportunity came at just the right time. Tracey had already been looking for her next adventure, and the Brighter Future’s Challenge struck a personal chord.

“This came up and I thought, I have to do it. My dad and I had talked about walking the Great Wall before he got sick. He was a massive advocate for supporting children and families, so I thought it would be a nice thing to do in his memory.”

Her parents were social advocates in South Africa, where they saw children facing tough circumstances. That experience inspired Tracey to want to make a difference and support children.

“We often travelled or moved across the country and overseas, so I have seen how some children have lived without the essentials. That is why I’m doing the walk – I’m doing it for children’s wellbeing. All children are going through stuff, and there shouldn’t be barriers to them just being children.”

To prepare for the big challenge ahead, Tracey has been doing long walks and working hard to meet the fundraising goal of $3,500. She’s already hosted a bake sale and is planning more events – including a high tea fundraiser.

Support amazing participants like Tracey who are walking for a brighter future for children by donating today. Or sign up to take on the challenge yourself and help support the thousands of children who reach out to What’s Up.

Brighter Futures Challenge - Great Wall of China

Embark on a 10-day trek along the Great Wall of China to raise vital funds, helping Barnardos continue to support thousands of tamariki and rangatahi reaching out to Barnardos’ 0800 What’s Up helpline. Make every step count for a cause that changes lives.

Winter offer: sign up before 31 July 2025 and save $165 on your registration fee!

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Brighter Futures Challenge: Tracey Layt walks the Great Wall for tamariki