Malta’s Zach Vella: From London Streets to Our Shores, Running for a Cause

Imagine pounding the pavement, not for a personal best, but to make a difference. That’s exactly what local hero Zach Vella has been doing. He’s just completed an epic run from London to Malta, covering over 1,800 kilometers, all to raise awareness and funds for our island’s homeless community.

From Concept to Reality

Zach, a 33-year-old fitness enthusiast from Msida, hatched this ambitious plan in his living room last year. “I was watching a documentary about homelessness,” he recalls, “and I thought, ‘I can’t just sit here and do nothing.’ So, I decided to do something big, something that would grab people’s attention.”

And grab attention it did. Zach’s journey began on April 1st, 2023, at the iconic Tower Bridge in London. He ran through cities, towns, and countryside, his route taking him through France, Switzerland, and Italy before finally reaching Malta on May 15th.

Malta’s Support Along the Way

Zach’s run wasn’t just a physical challenge; it was also a test of resilience and determination. But he wasn’t alone. Throughout his journey, he received an outpouring of support from fellow Maltese expats and locals alike.

“I’d receive messages from people I’d never met, offering to run with me, or just cheering me on,” Zach says. “It was incredible to see the Maltese community come together like this.” In fact, when he reached the island, he was greeted by a group of supporters at the Mgarr Ferry Terminal, who ran the final kilometers with him.

Running for a Cause

Zach’s run was more than just a personal challenge; it was a call to action. He partnered with Dar Merħba Bik, a local NGO that provides support and shelter to Malta’s homeless. “I wanted to raise awareness about the issue of homelessness in Malta,” he explains. “And I wanted to raise funds to support the amazing work that Dar Merħba Bik does.”

By the end of his run, Zach had raised over €15,000 for the charity. But he’s quick to point out that the real victory is the conversation his run has started. “I’ve had so many people reach out to me, asking how they can help, how they can get involved,” he says. “That’s what this was all about.”

As Zach reflects on his journey, he’s clear about what’s next. “I’m not done yet,” he says. “I’ve got more runs planned, more challenges to take on. Because as long as there are people in need, I’ll keep running.”