Not Just Travel consultant Jo O’Connell crossed the finish line in Panaji, Goa, on 8 March after taking part in a six-day, all-women rally organised by social initiative The Sisterhood.
More than 30 participants travelled from Chennai on India’s east coast to Goa in a convoy of tuk-tuks, navigating busy highways, mountain roads and major cities while raising funds for grassroots projects supporting women and girls in Chennai.
O’Connell said the journey had been "epic" but far from easy. "The learning curve was incredibly steep," she said. "We had two hours learning how to drive a tuk-tuk in a car park and then suddenly we were out in the crazy traffic of Chennai, where vehicles are coming at you from every direction."
Jo and her sister finished the rally on International Women's Day (Credit: Jo O'Connell)
"There were moments where it wasn’t a thrill, it was actually really dangerous," Jo continued. "But we all survived!"
The rally covered around 1,200km in total, taking in stops including Vellore, Bangalore, Mysore and Mangalore before embarking on the final, 230-kilometre leg to Goa.
O’Connell, who took part alongside her sister Lisa, hoped the experience would inspire women both in India and back home in the UK.
"About 99.9% of vehicles out here are driven by men," she said. "And we've learnt a few things from them. Act like you own the road, drive assertively, and you'll get through!
"We really hope this challenge inspires other women to step out of their comfort zone, too. You can do anything when you put your mind to it."
Along the way the group experienced breakdowns, challenging traffic and steep mountain drives, but also moments of connection with local communities, including celebrating Holi and visiting a monastery in Mangalore.
Jo's tuk-tuk broke down on the third night, just outside Bangalore (Credit: Jo O'Connell)
Participants also visited projects funded by the rally, including a school supporting children with special educational needs.
O’Connell said seeing the impact of the charities had strengthened her determination to keep fundraising.
"We’ve met the people delivering these projects and we know every single pound raised is going to transform someone’s life," she said.
"It could mean education for a child or healthcare for a woman who’s just given birth. We are still fundraising, as there’s so much more to do."
Last year’s rally raised £135,000 for grassroots initiatives in Chennai, with this year’s participants targeting a hefty £150,000.
"If you can support us we would be incredibly grateful," she said. "Every donation really will make a difference."
Visit The Sisterhood's shared fundraising page to find out more.
