Hundreds of posters designed by Royal Gazette photographer Akil Simmons will go up in Bermuda and the UK to advertise the Run For Freedom.

Akil's image — representing how modern day slavery affects people of all racial backgrounds — encourages as many people as possible to take part in the event in Front Street on March 30, and a corresponding run in London's Square Mile.

The poster incorporates the handprint logo of Stop The Traffik, the international anti-slavery coalition which will benefit from funds raised.

It highlights the Freedom Keys which symbolise the hope that Run For Freedom will put pressure on world leaders to release the millions of men, women and children enslaved today.

Bermuda College student Akil, who won a competition to design the image, was congratulated in a short ceremony at the City Hall yesterday.

"It's a great honour to win and help the movement," said Akil.

Run For Freedom organiser Charlotte Wilberforce, the great-great-great granddaughter of UK slave emancipator William Wilberforce, said: "We had seen some good entries which really stood out, but then we saw Akil's poster — it's so prominent, so strong and beautiful; an eye-catching image.

"It shows how we can all help in the fight against modern day slavery. I'm so impressed and thrilled with it."

Corporation of Hamilton Mayor Sutherland Madeiros presented Akil with a certificate marking his winning entry.

Explaining his backing for Run For Freedom, Mr. Madeiros said: "It's one of the most important issues that face the world today.

"The history of slavery is well documented, but we need to concentrate our efforts to abolish slavery as it exists in all of its forms today.

"We forget that people are still suffering. Through this run, Charlotte Wilberforce will be raising funds to fight against it."

Run For Freedom will start at 1 p.m. on Sunday, March 30, and will be one mile long, from Front Street to Barr's Park, where a party will be held. People who don't want to or can't run will be able to walk, and families are encouraged to take part together.

It is likely to get international coverage from MTV, which is planning to film Run For Freedom's twin event in London, and hopes to include footage from Bermuda in its final broadcast.

Entry forms are available from Daisy & Mac, Washington Mall Upper Level; Sound Stage; Cafe Ten; The Royal Gazette office in Par-la-Ville and others.

It costs $10 for children up to 16; $20 for adults; $50 for a family of four; $30 to enter on the day of the event. The first 300 entrants will receive a free T-shirt and goody bag.

You can send direct payments to Bank of Bermuda's Run For Freedom account on 010-778488-011, also sign up by e-mailing runforfreedom@yahoo.com.