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Jo Diop and Kush Burman, winners of the BBC’s Race Across the World, have captured the admiration of seven million viewers with their warmth and camaraderie. Their inspiring journey is now influencing their old school, Calderstones School in Liverpool, where headteacher Lee Ratcliffe expressed immense pride in seeing the two friends succeed. The final episode of the series, which aired recently, showcased their determination and strong friendship, leaving a lasting impact on their school community.
Lee Ratcliffe shared with BBC Radio Merseyside how the school assemblies have shifted focus following Jo and Kush’s achievement. “They will now be about the notion that these boys had the courage, the ambition – they took the risks to go.” The £20,000 prize money the pair won will be invested in purchasing property, as both their mothers have previously been renting. Mr. Ratcliffe described both young men as “magnificent, young gentlemen” and emphasized the immense devotion of their mothers, who had worked tirelessly to support their families. “I think those mums deserve an enormous amount of credit and there’s a lot for us all to learn from that kind of family unit.”
During the two-month race, viewers witnessed Jo’s unwavering support for Kush, particularly as Kush faced emotional difficulties stemming from the loss of his stepfather Matt during the pandemic-related lockdown. Kush opened up about his struggles with anxiety before the trip, noting how Jo helped him by giving space to process his feelings and even staying awake to listen when needed. In the reunion episode following the finale, Kush spoke about seeking counselling to manage his emotions and reflected, “The one thing the race did teach is that it’s ok to ask for help. Being kind and looking after each other – that’s real masculinity.” Their journey also included lighter moments, such as the friends’ amusing attempts to remember the Beatles line-up. Kush remarked, “the biggest takeaway from the race is now we know all The Beatles.”
The support and recognition extend beyond their school. Head of Calderstones’ sixth form, Paul Richards, praised their ability to connect with strangers and overcome challenges despite their youth. “Against all odds, they’re two young boys [competing] against older adults who have perhaps got more life experience – travelling that distance with nothing.” Jo and Kush were the youngest duo competing this year, covering 12,000km, and proudly represented Liverpool’s spirit internationally. Their success is prompting Calderstones School to invite the pair to speak at their upcoming awards evening, replacing the usual business-sector alumni. Former teacher Chris Spruce praised them as “a beacon example to our future students” and expressed plans to use their story for years ahead to inspire others about what can be achieved with determination
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