Jo and Kush's Epic Race Inspires Youth with Courage and Friendship

Jo Diop and Kush Burman, two teenagers from Liverpool, have become role models for young people after winning the BBC show Race Across the World. The show challenged them to travel from Italy to Mongolia without using mobile phones, relying only on their wits, teamwork, and the kindness of strangers. Their journey was watched by seven million viewers, who were touched by their friendship and the way they supported each other through tough times. Their school, Calderstones School, is especially proud of their achievement. The head teacher, Lee Ratcliffe, said he felt a huge sense of pride watching his former students win. He now uses their story in school assemblies to encourage other students to be brave, ambitious, and willing to take risks.

Jo and Kush, both 19, plan to use their £20,000 prize money to help their families by investing in a home. Both of their mothers have always rented, and the boys want to help change that. Mr Ratcliffe described them as 'magnificent, young gentlemen' and praised their mothers for working so hard to give their children the best opportunities. He believes there is a lot to learn from the way their families support each other. During the race, Jo and Kush were praised for their mutual support. Kush struggled with anxiety, especially after losing his stepdad during the coronavirus lockdown. Jo was always there for him, giving him space to talk and even staying up at night so Kush could share his feelings. After the show, Kush spoke about how seeing a counselor helped him process his emotions and said the race taught him it is okay to ask for help.

Their openness about mental health has been praised by many, including politicians who say it sets a positive example for healthy masculinity. They believe that being kind and looking after each other is what real strength looks like. Jo and Kush also brought joy to viewers with lighter moments, such as when they struggled to remember all the Beatles' names but now say they know them all. Their classmates at Calderstones School see them as entertaining and inspiring, showing that it's important to enjoy life and try new things. The head teacher said it felt like the whole city was cheering for them as they represented Liverpool abroad, teaching Scouse slang to people in other countries and bonding with locals over football. The school now plans to invite Jo and Kush to speak at their awards evening, hoping their story will inspire future students to believe in themselves and aim high. Their former teacher, Chris Spruce, called them a beacon for future students, showing what can be achieved with determination and teamwork.