12 October 2026 Helping young people build skills and confidence: Olivia Frazer on why she’s running the TCS London Marathon

Olivia Frazer, Programme Support Officer at The Talent Foundry (TTF), is squeezing her marathon training into an already packed schedule. We caught up with her to find out more about why she’s running the marathon next year for TTF.

Inspired by watching British athlete Keely Hodgkinson take the running world by storm, Liv picked up running over three years ago. For Liv, seeing a young woman just like her succeed made her believe that she could, too.

What’s behind Liv taking on the London Marathon?

Social mobility has always been at the forefront of Liv’s professional motivations. Soon to mark her third anniversary working for The Talent Foundry, she’s intent on building a fairer future where everyone has access to support and a chance to thrive.

I believe that opportunity should not be determined by a person’s background.

With her 9-5 aligned with her personal values, running the TCS London Marathon 2027 is a chance for her sporting endeavours to support her professional goals. For Liv, running is about more than just pushing herself out of her comfort zone and taking on a challenge. She’s seen behind-the-scenes and knows how important our work is in opening doors for young people living in under-served communities.

Helping young people to grow in confidence and learn about different career pathways can have a significant impact on their futures. That’s why I am running for TTF.

Careers education and support are key to success

Liv knows from personal experience just how important it is for young people to get the right kind of support. She could have benefitted from knowing about a broader range of options when she was at school – and understanding them properly.

Her advice to young people?

Put yourself out there more. Get out of your comfort zone, get involved in school activities, join more teams and take advantage of any opportunities that come your way, even if they seem scary.

Supporting personal development is key to a young person’s career success, and Liv knows first-hand the importance of role models in paving post-education pathways. Our programmes bring volunteers into the classroom and take students into the workplace, broadening horizons and providing access to opportunities.

Looking ahead, Liv hopes for a bright future:

I’d like to see more opportunities for young people, and more employers helping young people access the world of work.

Raising funds and calming a busy mind

Fitting marathon training in around a busy schedule can be a challenge, but we’re excited to hear how Liv gets on as the autumnal weather takes hold. Despite the dwindling daylight, running still helps Liv to relax after work:

I find running peaceful and meditative. It’s nice to switch off at the end of the day and listen to music.

Liv’s dedication to supporting social mobility keeps her putting one foot in front of each other – along with the temptation of a sweet treat after a Sunday morning run. We are proud of the miles she’s putting in and can’t wait to see her on the start line.

I hope the money I raise will help TTF to continue the good work that they’re doing and help young people to access opportunities and build their confidence and skills.

Seeing progress with training, even on days when motivation is low, is something Liv is looking forward to. She is hoping that thorough preparation will see her through, as well as the goal of beating her previous marathon time.

We can’t wait to see what all our runners get up to over the winter months. To stay up to date with their stories, follow us on social media.