Their names are Mathilde, Olivier, Floriane, Simmoni, Sophan, Mathieu, Roland, Mickael, Veronique, Thomas and Thibault. Together they took up a challenge by running during the “Course des Héros” race in Paris and Lyon on June 17. Together they raised more than €9000 for the students of Passerelles numériques. Who are these almost ordinary heroes?

Mathilde Lhuillier, Financial Controller at Richemont, sister of Maud Lhuillier (Editor’s note: Asia director of PN).

My sister has changed her life and left Paris, which she loves so much, and her dear friends for this charity she deeply believes in. So the least I could do was run a few miles to show my solidarity. And, as I also had a lot of fun, it was really the right equation!

Olivier Rolin, Company Secretary of IEFP Salary Savings, friend of Maud Lhuillier.

Always positive, as dynamic in his running as in his work, cycles a lot.

“It’s important to give knowledge around the world, a source of fulfilment and development for all”

Floriane Bass, Psychiatrist, friend of Olivier Rolin. She hadn’t heard of PN before this event.

Nicknamed “asymptote to disaster” by her friends, she loves cooking and singing.

“I decided to run because I had 1/20 in endurance in high school and that the idea of running 10 kms was far enough out of reach for me to appeal to me. … I have a very vivid memory of a trip to Cambodia 10 years ago, where I realized that not everyone had the advantage of having the future they dreamed of, and maybe not even have the chance to dream about their future! I was happy to run for PN: their mission “speaks to me” because I can clearly see the impact of their actions thanks to the memories of Cambodia which remain in my mind.”

Simmoni de Weck,  Operations Manager for a great startup in Lyon, board member and proud ambassador of PN.

Passionate about the blind-test regarding the 80’s, fan of matcha desserts and lemon pie. Left Paris for Lyon and hopes to make PN shine there. Passionate about “empowerment” through PN and other NGOs.

“It was the opportunity for me to do my bit to support PN by running with my friends Sophan and Mathieu! Thanks to them! I’m always happy to do what I can to make a better world and help bring about positive change.”

Sophan Keo, Solution Architect in infrastructure, friend of Simmoni de Weck but also donor through Accenture (micro-donations).

Mister Cambodge 2004 and vice-president of the association LJK (young Khmer)

“It allows me, in my small way, to contribute to this noble cause.”

Mathieu Cherubin, Digital project manager, friend of Simmoni.

Did the pilgrimage of Compostela.

“I like running, I like challenges and I have energy to spare, so I wanted to help PN with this race and this collection.”

Roland Flouquet-Vilboux, Director of Programs & Operations Partners, Europe Middle East Africa at CITRIX, volunteer, donor and administrator of PN.

Love to overcome obstacles … on horseback and in life in general! Fan of the Ralf Tech watches used by French and foreign special forces.

“This race is a good way to continue engaging current donors and to raise awareness among new donors. By supporting PN, I feel I am a driver for change for a better world. The mission of Passerelles numériques is in line with my professional activity and my values.”

Mickael Galibert, Digital Consultant in Energy, at Accenture, ex-Volunteer in PNV & PNP.

Already two PN centres discovered during its missions in Vietnam and the Philippines, and soon a third centre in Cambodia with a new mission scheduled for October.

“The “Course des Héros” gave us a great day with the PN team; the race was in a very friendly atmosphere, with good humour and a lot of energy. This event allowed us to collect a good sum of money for PN, and have a great time together, with some memorable encounters and great memories. I’d definitely do it again!”

Véronique Demont, Corporate Partnerships Manager at PN for 6 years.

Never give up! (Whether in the St Cloud park or when fundraising). In addition to being PN’addict, she has also been a Philippines’ addict since she was 15, after a one-year mission on the Cebu landfill.

“It was just great! Both the race itself and our super team in blue t-shirts. And most of all I was very touched by the support of my friends and family.”

Thomas Masson, Running advisor, but also writer, son of Patrick Masson who did a beautiful photo reportage at the 3 PN centres.

Running addict and sensual kitchen addict, he likes to speak to trees.

“After talking to Maud Lhuillier, I decided to take up this challenge. As a fan of both sport and civic action, I was happy to take part.”

Thibault Lecuyer, CSR Manager, ex-Volunteer at PNV.

Banh Mi Lover.

“By taking part in this race, I wanted to put PN on the map and confirm my commitment to this organisation. PN leads a social and educational initiative to drive social progress and innovation in areas which are very close to my heart. Deeply inspiring and engaging, PN still deserves more support and exposure!”

Not to mention our super supporter and photographer, to whom we leave the last word:

Julie Laporte, Donor Relations Officer at the American Hospital, former intern in Communications and Fundraising at PNP.

Sensitive and optimistic, she loves crochet and photography.

“This race is a way to support PN’s actions. It allows volunteers and staff to meet up. PN is a great NGO that deserves lots of support. Its mission is important and the beneficiaries are extraordinary. They are motivated, intelligent, curious, creative … PN forever! ”

We would also like to extend a huge thanks to the 17 INOP’S employees who ran for Passerelles numériques. Thank you for your commitment to our students!