HÀ NỘI — Nearly 17,000 people across the country joined Standard Chartered’s Fun Fit Fest 2025, a month-long initiative that promoted healthy living and community spirit through more than 15 sports activities.

The campaign, which ran ahead of the Standard Chartered Hanoi Marathon Heritage Race 2025, inspired thousands to stay active while contributing to social causes.

Throughout the event, participants engaged in online and offline fitness challenges, sharing over 1,200 posts on Facebook to spread messages of health, inclusion and compassion. The enthusiasm demonstrated how sport can connect people and amplify charitable efforts.

On November 9, the Organising Committee announced a donation of VNĐ200 million from the Fun Fit Fest programme to the Will to Live Fund. The contribution will support people with disabilities through the 'Digital Business Startups' programme, offering them opportunities to build sustainable livelihoods through technology.

Trịnh Như Quỳnh, Head of Corporate Affairs, Brand and Marketing at Standard Chartered Bank Vietnam, said the success of Fun Fit Fest illustrated the impact of collective action for a good cause.

“This initiative is part of our mission to build a healthier and more inclusive community,” she said.

“We are proud to see so many people come together to support those with disabilities, helping them start their own digital businesses and live more independent lives.”

Nguyễn Thị Vân, Co-founder and Chairwoman of the Will to Live Center, expressed gratitude to the participants and organisers for turning fitness into a force for social change.

“Every step, every photo, and every drop of sweat showed not only the sporting spirit but also kindness and solidarity,” she said.

“The VNĐ200 million raised will be used transparently and responsibly to provide free digital training, helping people with disabilities gain confidence and independence.”

Established in 2008, the Will to Live Center is a social enterprise supporting people with disabilities and disadvantaged groups through free IT and digital skills training. To date, it has trained over 2,000 students, with around 70 per cent securing employment after graduation.

The Standard Chartered Hanoi Marathon Heritage Race 2025, the 10th race in the bank’s global marathon series, took place on November 9 at Hà Nội’s Quần Ngựa Sports Palace.

As the main sponsor, Standard Chartered continues its 120-year commitment to supporting Việt Nam’s growth and fostering a sustainable, connected community through sport. — VNS