How Our Awareness Walk Created a Legacy for the Future
On Saturday 28 June 2025, the Vitiligo Society marked a powerful milestone—its 40th anniversary—with an intimate and uplifting awareness walk through Hyde Park, London. With around 40 attendees, including individuals with vitiligo, their families, friends, and supporters, the event was a celebration of community, visibility, and strength.
The walk was co-organised by Gurdeep, one of the Society’s trustees, who was inspired by the story of Angela, a member whose first Society walk six years ago was a life-changing experience.
Being amongst others who had vitiligo and were confident about it was a massive turning point in my life… because I finally felt accepted…it was the first time I felt like I belonged.
Angela’s words stayed with Gurdeep, and they’ve become a personal mission: to ensure that others, too, experience that same sense of connection and validation. This walk was the realisation of that commitment—a space where no one felt alone, where stories could be shared and connections and support networks could be made.
As the group gathered at the Serpentine Road entrance, participants were welcomed by Society volunteers, staff and ambassadors armed with goody bags and a warm, friendly smile. Although small in number, the group’s presence was bold and visible as they set off through Hyde Park, spreading awareness and walking proudly together.
As it was such a warm day not everyone chose to walk, a small group simply sat and chatted at our picnic area and enjoyed the relaxed atmosphere. Once the walk was over, the whole group sat together to enjoy birthday cake, picnic lunches, and informal chats on the grass. Children played, dogs received lots of cuddles and families relaxed. Most importantly, everyone shared experiences—some meeting others with vitiligo for the very first time. The impact was immediate and genuine.
Post-event feedback confirmed just how meaningful the gathering had been with 70 of those attending saying they felt more connected to others afterwards. Participants said their highlights included meeting and talking to more people with vitiligo, gaining valuable knowledge to better support family members and simply having the chance to talk freely and make connections.
We also received some lovely words of feedback:
“An absolutely amazing event!! Well done and thank you!!”
“Thank you for the suncream and teddy!”
“Very good. I’m more likely to join monthly video calls now.”
“Thank you so much for allowing me to be part of this amazing community!”
“If you ever need an indoor base in London, I can offer space at my office.
Inspiring Local Advocacy
Not everyone joined us in person, Olivia who took the celebration a step further—literally. Turning 13 this July, she set herself a personal challenge: to walk 40,000 steps throughout the month in honour of the Society’s 40 years and to raise funds and awareness for others like her.
“I was diagnosed with vitiligo when I was seven years old, and at first, it was hard to understand why my skin was changing. But over time, I’ve learned that vitiligo is a part of me – and it’s nothing to be ashamed of. I’m doing this walk to help raise awareness, support other young people like me, and show that our differences are something to be proud of. Every step I take is one towards confidence, inclusion, and change.
Olivia’s campaign has already raised over £650, and her determination and honesty touched many hearts during the event. Support Olivia’s fundraising here: justgiving.com/campaign/vitiligoawarenesswalk
Why This Walk Mattered
This wasn’t just a walk—it was a collective moment of celebration, healing, and connection:
- It built community: Many had never before met another person with vitiligo. For them, the event offered belonging.
- It amplified awareness: The walk sparked curiosity and conversations with onlookers throughout the park.
- It created momentum: Attendees expressed greater interest in joining regular activities like monthly video calls.
- It inspired generosity: From Olivia’s £650+ fundraising to offers of future venue support, the ripple effects are already taking shape.
Looking Ahead
The 40th anniversary awareness walk has sparked something lasting. What began as a one-off celebration is now shaping a legacy of connection, visibility, and future events. Angela’s story lit the spark, and our incredible trustee Gurdeep is determined to ensure we don’t lose sight of how important opportunities like this are.
This wasn’t about numbers—it was about meaning. Every story shared, every step walked, and every conversation started contributed to a stronger, more visible community.
To everyone who joined, supported, donated, and helped make the day possible—thank you.
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