Meet James Nyiang Chiengjiek

James is from South Sudan. When the war broke out in his country, he was at risk of being forced to join the army and fight as a child soldier. So he fled in search of safety and the chance to have his childhood.

In 2002, he arrived in a refugee camp in Kenya. He grew up here, starting school and his interest in running. UNHCR, working in the camp, persuaded him to participate in a selection process to join Tegla Loroupe Peace Foundation in 2015.

James has had great success since then! He competed in Rio 2016 and is competing this year in Tokyo 2020. “By running well, I hope to be doing something good to help others – especially refugees”.

Keep an eye out for James in the Men’s 800m on Saturday 31st July