Sparking Good: Whitney Kim’s Inspiring Ride for Joyya

At Joyya, our mission is to "Spark Good," and today, we’re honored to share the story of one of our incredible global supporters who has done just that.

Meet Whitney Kim

Whitney Kim, based on the East Coast of the United States, knows firsthand the challenges that financial barriers can place on dreams and opportunities. As the daughter of immigrant parents working hard to build a life in a new country, Whitney grew up as an energetic child eager to explore new activities. However, many extracurricular programs required payment, limiting her choices. She quickly realized that while people often said, "You can become whatever you dream of," financial reality told a different story.

At Joyya, we work in communities where extreme poverty and modern-day slavery create similar limitations. Choices are dictated by necessity—education, fun, and skill-building opportunities often remain out of reach. That’s why we provide vocational training in sewing, language skills, computer literacy, and cycling lessons, alongside joyful experiences like camps, carnivals, and outings. Our goal? To break barriers, create opportunities, and Spark Good.

A Journey Begins

Fast forward to 2022: while supporting her mother through a cancer diagnosis, Whitney turned to cycling as a way to cope with stress. She quickly discovered that physical endurance was not just a test of strength but also a lesson in resilience.

"I learned you can do hard things if you just take it step by step," she reflects.

This realization led her to complete her first 100 mile ride—and soon after, she set her sights on an even bigger goal: a solo, 3,000-mile cycling journey from Maine to Florida.

Riding for a Cause

Around the same time, Whitney learned about Joyya’s work with communities affected by extreme poverty and modern slavery. Our Joyride initiative—where cyclists worldwide raise funds for Joyya—resonated deeply with her. She decided to turn her ambitious solo ride into a fundraiser, using her journey to Spark Good for others. Her motivation was simple yet powerful:

"To allow kids to be kids, to never stop playing."

From Maine to Florida: The Ride of a Lifetime

With a plan in place, Whitney tackled the logistics—mapping her route, securing accommodation, setting up safety tracking, and undergoing intense pre-training. By October 2024, as Joyya launched its annual Joyride campaign, Whitney hit the road.

The first few miles in Maine were tough. Steep hills tested her endurance, and doubts crept in. She described her mood as "riding the hills"—up and down. But by week two, she found her rhythm, embracing both the challenges and the freedom of the open road.

Some of the highlights?

• Realizing that with persistence, she could tackle any challenge.
• Receiving kindness, love and support from her community, friends and hosts along the journey
• Increased moments of stillness to be present with myself.

Some of the struggles?

• Being chased by aggressive dogs (a true endurance test!).
• Long stretches of solo riding in unfamiliar states.

Through it all, Whitney kept her supporters engaged by sharing regular updates on social media. Messages of encouragement poured in, and donations steadily climbed toward her fundraising goal.

A Record-Breaking Finish

By the time Whitney reached Florida, she had not only completed her 3,000-mile ride but had also shattered her fundraising goal—raising over $26,000 (USD)!

Her incredible effort will help Joyya bring joy and transformation to communities and the amount she raised will enable around 150 people to access the following:
✔️ Carnivals, youth clubs, and leadership programs
✔️ Access to education, health services, and legal support
✔️ Vocational training and skill-building opportunities

Advice for Future Joyriders

When asked what advice she would give to others looking to embark on their own fundraising journey, Whitney kept it simple:

"Just go for it! Whether big or small, don’t let fears stop you. Just start, don’t overthink it. Keep the end goal in mind, as feelings can fluctuate, take it step by step, and you will achieve it."

Whitney, thank you for your courage, generosity, and unwavering determination. Your journey has not only brought hope to many but will undoubtedly inspire next year’s Joyriders to dream even bigger and ride even farther!