Adidas Runners

back

global

Celebrating Deo Kato: A Journey of Migration, Resilience, and Unity in Black History Month

As we celebrate Black History Month in Europe, a time to honor the contributions and heritage of the Black community, we are spotlighting an inspiring individual who embodies the spirit of perseverance and strength, adidas Runners London coach Deo Kato.

Deo is running from Cape Town to London, tracing the path of human migration to tell a story that connects continents, cultures, and history. His mission has had a profound impact on the adidas Runners family across the globe. Starting in August 2023, Deo has since run over 11,440km over 466 days. Now currently in Croatia, he is nearing the final stretch. Deo’s impact on the community is deeply felt. He has inspired runners from every corner of the globe, reminding us of the power of movement, not only as a means of fitness but as a vehicle for change and connection. His journey has brought people together to reflect on their own stories, struggles, and victories. We asked our global community of runners to share how Deo has inspired them personally and collectively. Read their messages below:

Luke (adidas Runners Tokyo)

"Looking back at last year’s adidas Runners week, I remember how, after Deo’s presentation, I approached him to express my appreciation. The way he accepted every word I shared was calm yet powerful; his energy is truly special.

Deo’s presence serves as a daily reminder of what we need to achieve for justice and the importance of consistency in our will. It’s truly inspiring. Every time the AR Tokyo community gathers, we discuss the progress of his challenge and how inspired we are by it. If this community is made up of changemakers, then you are the true captain.”

adidas Runners Week 2023

Jonty (adidas Runners London)

Deo has been a constant source of inspiration throughout his journey from Cape Town to London. Watching him take on this incredible challenge with such determination and resilience has been nothing short of amazing. He has shown us all that with the right mindset and dedication, anything is possible.

His journey has inspired me not only as a runner but in my day-to-day life, pushing me to dig deeper and to encourage others to push past their limits. This accomplishment is extraordinary, and he has impacted so many lives along the way. Keep going strong brother – you’ve got this!

Jonty Brown

Reine (adidas Runners Paris)

"Following Deo’s journey makes me think about my family’s story, about my father who came to Europe from Africa 50 years ago. In a way, Deo has inspired me to speak about humanity and intersectionality with the adidas Runners Paris community, and it was a beautiful moment of sharing. Thank you, Deo, for inspiring us."

Reine Penka

Maria (adidas Runners Athens)

"I heard about Deo’s expedition in 2023, and I was looking forward to the day when he would reach our Greek ground to pass through my city where I would welcome him, support and encourage him. When the day arrived, I met him at the port of Piraeus and joined him for 25km to Elefsina where we said our temporary goodbye. Deo’s journey inspires me as it is long, tough, and unknown journey across continents. You can plan the route, but you don’t know what you will see the next day. The only thing we look forward to is having family and friends around to enrich our lives every day."

Maria Malai

Ayo (adidas Runners London)

"Deo’s journey from Cape Town truly demonstrates the 'impossible is nothing' spirit that we should all strive to embody. Watching him push through challenges with determination and grace has been a powerful reminder of the potential we all have within us. Deo’s energy and resilience inspires not just runners, but everyone, to use that same spirit to create positive change in our lives and the lives of others.

As Deo approaches the final stretch, I want to send him boundless energy. He continues to inspire all of us, and he should know that the whole adidas Runners global community is behind him every step of the way!"

Ayo Dada

Touleen Haytham (On behalf of the adidas Runners Cairo community)

"As Deo embarks on this incredible journey from Cape Town to London, we want him to remember that every step he takes is more than just a physical challenge; it’s a testament to his strength, resilience, and spirit.

Deo is not just running across continents—he is forging a path of inspiration. He is not just running; he is making memories, breaking barriers, and showing the world what is possible. We urge Deo to keep pushing, keep smiling, and remember that this is his adventure. You’ve got this!"

Deo and the adidas Runners Cairo community

With the final stretch of Deo’s remarkable journey ahead, we invite you to show your support as he continues his path toward London.

Stay connected and be inspired by Deo’s story by supporting him on Instagram.

Check out our special Instagram reel, featuring heartfelt messages from adidas Runners captains and coaches, all wishing Deo good luck on the adidas Runners Instagram.

Share this article

adidas runners blog

view blog

explore our recent stories

global

How we can work to change ridiculous running realities together

Running with one earphone in, bringing an alert whistle, wearing loose clothing, notifying friends and family before and after a run; these are some of the realities that 69%* of women runners all over the world face every day...

global

WITH WOMEN WE RUN 2022: PARTNERSHIPS, PLEDGES AND PIVOTAL MOMENTS

At adidas Runners, the safety of women while running remains our steadfast commitment. 2022 saw the launch of With Women We Run — unarguably one of our most powerful initiatives to date. Working to end harassment and all forms of violence against women lies at the heart of the campaign to make running a sport that can be enjoyed safely by all. Already in the first year of its existence, a staggering 245 With Women We Run events were held around the world. Meanwhile, 120,000 adidas Running app users signed the White Ribbon pledge, thereby making a commitment to never carry out, excuse or remain silent about violence against women.

global

With women we run: Healthy masculinities

Healthy masculinity is the idea that men can be emotionally expressive without feeling debased. It also entails treating everyone with respect and consideration.

global

With women we run: Safety in running

Being harassed as a woman while running has become a norm. Because of this, women have had to change their behaviour to avoid being catcalled, followed or body shamed.

global

WITH WOMEN WE RUN: FACTS AND FIGURES

Women and marginalised runners feel unsafe while running. They experience repeated verbal and physical harassment from the general public and fellow runners.

global

WITH WOMEN WE RUN: CREATING SAFE SPACES FOR EVERYONE

In 2022, adidas Runners successfully launched the WITH WOMEN WE RUN initiative to demonstrate our commitment to collectively end harassment and any form of gender-based violence and vulnerable groups, making running spaces safer for all.

global

LEARN TO BECOME A LIFELONG ALLY

In part one of our WITH WOMEN WE RUN initiative, we learned that the root cause of gender-based violence is a wider culture that accepts, perpetuates and promotes a view of women and vulnerable groups as unequal.

global

WITH WOMEN WE RUN - OUR AR COMMITMENT

Earlier in 2022, we launched WITH WOMEN WE RUN — a powerful initiative that has become a permanent pillar in our adidas Runners community values. Through this, our collective goal is to help end harassment and any forms of violence against women to make running safer for all.

global

IT'S TIME WE ADDRESS HARASSMENT AND SAFETY IN RUNNING.

As a global running community, adidas Runners is committed to holding ourselves accountable, becoming allies, and leading with transparency. We acknowledge the growth that we as a community need to undertake, to uphold our values, for the sake of all our diverse community members.