Gurmeet Singh Sidhu, affectionately known as “Walking Singh,” has captured the hearts of many after winning the prestigious Movember UK and Europe Award 2025 in the “Going the Distance” category. The physics teacher at Gravesend Grammar School, renowned for his unwavering commitment and remarkable resilience, achieved this honor by walking an astonishing 508 kilometers during the Movember campaign.
Movember, the globally recognized charity event held each November, focuses on raising awareness and funds for critical men’s health issues, including prostate cancer, testicular cancer, and mental health challenges. Traditionally associated with the iconic moustache-growing initiative, the event has expanded to incorporate various fundraising activities, inviting participation from both men and women to support a common cause.
Sidhu’s achievement is even more inspiring given his personal battles. Originally from Bathinda and an alumnus of PPS, Nabha, he was once faced with a grim prognosis after being warned by a neurosurgeon that he might never walk without needing back surgery. However, determined to defy the odds, Sidhu embarked on a rigorous routine—walking every day after school and over weekends—to stave off surgery and reclaim his mobility. His relentless determination resulted in an average of 17 kilometers a day, a feat that has not only earned him accolades but also the admiration of his students and the wider community.
Reflecting on his journey, Sidhu shared, “They have 10 different categories, but mine was ‘Going the Distance.’ I walked 508 kilometers in a month after school and over the weekends—an average of 17 kilometers per day. I was told by a neurosurgeon that I might not be able to walk for many years without back surgery. I did this to beat it and in the end, I won.” His passion for inspiring young people shines through his participation in multiple marathons and ultramarathons, reinforcing the message of perseverance and the importance of physical and mental health.
The award panel, which reviews the work and achievements of participants across a wide spectrum of challenges, recognized Sidhu’s extraordinary journey as a beacon of hope and determination. His story, marked by overcoming significant physical and mental health hurdles, serves as a powerful reminder that with resilience and dedication, even the most daunting challenges can be conquered.
As the Movember charity continues to mobilize communities across the UK and Europe in November, Gurmeet Singh Sidhu’s incredible journey stands as a testament to the human spirit—a spirit that refuses to be defined by limitations. His example encourages not only his students but also countless others facing their own battles to take that first step towards change.
