London lawyer taking on jungle jaunt for SSAFA

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07 October 2024

Joanna Patterson is taking part in the SSAFA Vietnam Trek from 21 to 30 October to raise funds for SSAFA, the Armed Forces charity.

Originally from the Portsmouth area, Joanna grew up surrounded by Navy ships, aircraft carriers, and submarines. Both her grandparents served in the Armed Forces Joanna almost joined herself, but her career as an employment lawyer instead brought her to London, where she regularly worked with the MoD.

For the past 12 years Joanna has worked for Expedia Group, getting to travel around the world and continue supporting the military community. Expedia, also a Corporate Partner of SSAFA, has a Veterans Inclusion Business Group, of which Joanna is the Global President.

Joanna said this about getting to work with and support veterans and their families: “It’s wonderful that Expedia and many passionate colleagues proactively supports this community whether due to military connections or as an ally.”

Outside of work Joanna stays active with running, Hyrox events, and other live sports. She is a Harlequins season ticket holder and keeps up with Formula One racing. She also volunteers in her spare time, which is how she got connected with SSAFA last year.

Getting on board with a 10-day trek through the Vietnam jungle took a bit more convincing, which came from Joanna’s friend and SSAFA Corporate Development Manager Jenny King. According to Joanna, this is how that conversation went: 

Jenny: “Do you fancy doing a 100km hike in Vietnam during October?”

Joanna: “How much do I need to raise?”

Jenny: “£3000.”

Joanna: “I’m in, send me the details, I’ll sign up today.”

Joanna added this about raising funds for SSAFA: “SSAFA do incredible work to help those who may be struggling in a multitude of ways, but who frequently don’t raise their hands for help until it is often too late because pride gets in the way. SSAFA is there to help everyone in the Armed Forces community from all ages and backgrounds, and the money we raise from this trek will make an impact.”