On Track for a Purpose: A Mother-Daughter Journey Through Britain’s Railways

When Kudakwashe Osoba, a member of Southeastern’s Margate station team, stepped into 2025, she carried with her more than just the usual hopes of a new year. Armed with a calendar gifted by Lee Woolcott-Ellis, Southeastern’s Wellbeing Lead, she found herself inspired by its monthly photographs of Britain’s railways, produced by the Railway Mission.

Each image captured a different scene from across the country, and Kuda had a moment of clarity:

"I could visit each one in the month it represents, and that will surely get me out of the house!"

This spontaneous idea soon turned into a heartfelt mission. Joined by her daughter Dani, the two decided to embark on a year-long journey, visiting each location featured in the calendar, month by month.

Their adventure is more than just a travel project. Both Kuda and Dani are active members of Sittingbourne Baptist Church, where faith, service, and community are central to their lives. Dani plays a key role working with the church’s young people and, as an accomplished musician, joins her mum as part of the worship team, blending her talent with her passion for ministry. They both enjoy making music for the Lord in the church's choir, which presents worship songs when needed - Carols by Candlelight at Christmas is a big focus.

From the outset, Daniella brought her eye for detail to the planning process. Their original date to begin the journey, Saturday, January 4th, was quickly abandoned when she realised the Pullman train shown in that month’s photo wouldn’t begin running until the 11th. “Back to the drawing board!” Kuda said with a laugh. “She’s got out of control!” But the small hitch didn’t deter them. It only strengthened their commitment.

Now, as June rolls in, the pair have visited half the locations on the calendar. Each trip is a celebration of Railway200, marking two centuries since the dawn of Britain’s railway system, and also a tribute to the Railway Mission, the charity that provides pastoral support through its network of dedicated chaplains. Both travellers have used their skills and talents for various charities  int he past but this one feels special - giving time and money, while getting some laughs and life experiences, meeting new people at the same time.

To add a creative twist to the journey, Kuda is writing a verbatim poem for every destination they visit, capturing the atmosphere, snippets of conversation, scenery, and spiritual reflections in poetic form. These poems, like the journey itself, are part travelogue, part testimony of the joys they are gaining along the way.

What began as a personal challenge has blossomed into a family adventure grounded in faith, creativity, and service. It’s a story of trains and tracks, but also of worship, wellness, and walking with purpose, together, one month and one station at a time.

For more information please contact:

Kudakwashe Osoba - kudakwashe.osoba@southeasternrailway.co.uk