The 17th edition of Wipro’s ‘Spirit of Wipro’ (SOW) run saw an overwhelming participation of almost 40,000 across 140 locations, globally.
The annual run is part of the ‘Ambitions Realised’ theme, which offers an opportunity for employees and their families to get together along with the technology and consulting services firm’s partners and clients.
Since this kind of event demanding physical participation has happened after a long gap post the pandemic, the company organised five global anchor runs in Bengaluru, Dubai, London, New York/New Jersey and Mountain View, California. These anchor runs around the globe are reflective of the true power of the Wipro spirit, and help uphold a sense of community, collaboration and celebration.
Additionally, 50 Wipro locations hosted local runs, while over 2,500 participants joined the SOW run from various locations around the world, using the Strava app.
Held on 9 October 2023, the run was witness to participants connecting with one another and contributing to their communities in a bid to make an all-round positive impact. The employee contributions were matched 100 per cent by the company, with the proceeds going to Wipro Cares, the community initiatives arm of Wipro.
This year, the amount collected is being given to local nonprofit organisations, focusing on the Wipro Cares impact pillars — digital skills, youth empowerment and sustainability.
In Bengaluru, the SOW run was integrated with the ‘Bengaluru Marathon’, which is sponsored by Wipro. The SOW run was held at Kanteerava Stadium, with close to 5,000 participants, and was flagged off by Rishad Premji, executive chairman, Wipro.
In Dubai, the run took place in Dubai Parks and Resorts, the largest theme park destination in the Middle East.
In London, participants gathered at the iconic Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, enjoying the stunning views of the Park as well as the children park nearby.
In Mountain View, California, the run took place at the Bayland Park, a preserved wetland. In addition to celebrations and activities, the local Boys and Girls Club held a sustainability workshop for the kids of runners and spectators.
In New York/New Jersey, the run was held at the Forest Lodge, and concluded with an employee-led ‘flash-mob.’
Saurabh Govil, chief human resources officer, Wipro, was glad that the event upheld “the power of collaboration” and was proof of “the positive impact we can make when we come together as a global community”.
