Entrepreneurs from the UK embark on a 1000-kilometre auto rickshaw rally from Chennai to Goa

This 1,000 km adventure from Chennai to Goa, aims at raising between ₹1–3 crores to empower women and children in India.
| Photo Credit: Special Arrangement

Rachel Vetch and Katrina Hutchinson hop on an auto rickshaw. Not as travellers this time, but as drivers.

These two British nationals, along with 52 other women, all in the age group between 23 and 62, arrived in Chennai on March 4 to participate in the Sisterhood Group UK for Let’s Goa 2025 Rickshaw Rally, organised in collaboration with Madras Midtown Round Table 42 and Madras Midtown Ladies Circle 7. This 1,000-km adventure from Chennai to Goa, aims at raising between ₹1 to ₹3 crores to empower women and children in India.

All the participants became proficient in driving the rickshaws within just two hours. They have been issued temporary licenses exclusively for this rally
| Photo Credit:
Special Arrangement

Katrina explains that all the participants are entrepreneurs, founders, CEOs and CFOs who have taken time off for this charitable event, while continuing to work remotely. “I will be joining the board meeting on my way to Vellore now,” says Katrina. Rachel adds, “Most of us are bikers and accustomed to endurance training. We trained for just three hours to drive an auto rickshaw, and we’re excited for the challenge.” They have been issued temporary licenses exclusively for this rally.

The rally was flagged off at the Sir & Lady Mutha Venkatasubba Rao Matriculation School, West Tambaram, with 18 auto rickshaws, each carrying three participants. “While one of us drives, the other navigates and the third can either focus on work or play music to keep us entertained,” says Katrina.

A total of 18 auto rickshaws with three participants in each was flagged off on March 6
| Photo Credit:
Special Arrangement

The Sisterhood Group (founded in 2006) is a collective of over 150 women from the UK who push boundaries to raise funds for women’s and children’s charities worldwide.

Since their founding, the Sisterhood Group has been on a mission to create meaningful change. Through extreme challenges, including dragon boating across the English Channel, participating in the Amazon raft race, and running the Marathon des Sables, they have raised over £1 million for charitable causes.

Emma Sayle, founder of the Sisterhood Group emphasises, “Our mission goes beyond adventure — it’s about empowering women, building networks, and creating a better future for children. We aim to cover 1,000 kilometers in six days, and along the way, we will explore local sights and spread awareness.”

Poornima Subramanian , chairperson of LC7, points out, “We believe in the power of women supporting women. This initiative is a testament to the strength of collaboration and shared vision.”

Organized by the Sisterhood Group UK in collaboration with MMRT42 and MMLC7
| Photo Credit:
Special Arrangement

This is Cerys Furlong’s — an ed-tech entrepreneur from Cardiff — first visit to India. She anticipates that navigating Indian traffic and weather may be their biggest challenges. “But I’m feeling positive and overwhelmed by the cheer and support we’ve received. By the way, I absolutely love dosas and idlis! I plan to explore more local cuisine along the route — my husband, who is a chef, even gave me some tips,” she chuckles.

The 18 auto rickshaws will set out by 6am everyday, and take breaks every three hours to rest the vehicle. By 6pm, the group checks into a hotel to rest and plan the next leg of their journey. A support vehicle with assistants and mechanics follows the rally to ensure a smooth ride until they reach their final destination.

Funds raised through this initiative will be directed towards MMRT42 and MMLC7’s ongoing projects, including anaemia prevention, women’s skill training for financial independence, and educational programs in tailoring, home nursing, and palliative care.

To follow their journey, visit their Instagram handle: @thesisterhoodgroup.