Cycling for a Cause with Anna
At BIC, our commitment to doing good is often driven by our team members who exemplify dedication, passion, and a strong sense of purpose both at work and in their personal lives. Beyond the contributions they make to our organization, these team members drive personal passion projects forward. Meet Anna Åberg, Marketing Manager for BIC’s Nordic region based in Sweden. She recently rode with Team Rynkeby, a European charity cycling team, helping to raise funds for children with critical illnesses.
Anna's journey with Team Rynkeby mirrors BIC's long-standing connection to cycling, from creating the iconic BIC advertising vehicle in the Tour de France to our recent Pro-Velo label at our Paris headquarters. Her passion for cycling, paired with her deep desire to make a difference, embodies the same values of perseverance and commitment that BIC has championed for decades. Whether it's cycling long distances or taking on new challenges at BIC, Anna shows that dedication to a cause can drive both personal and professional success.
We recently caught up with Anna to learn more about her cycling journey, her involvement in charity work, and how these experiences have shaped her both on and off the road:
Anna’s Cycling Journey
How did you first get involved with Team Rynkeby, and what motivated you to join this specific fundraising event?
My motivation to join Team Rynkeby stemmed from a desire to challenge myself physically while making a meaningful impact on the lives of children with critical illnesses. I love meeting new people and building connections, so combining my love for cycling with a cause close to my heart made perfect sense.
What inspired you to take on this cycling journey, and how did you prepare for such a challenging ride?
I’ve been road biking for 15 years, and it’s a true passion of mine. There’s something magical about the freedom of moving silently through nature, without disturbing the environment. However, preparing for this 1,250 km ride required serious commitment—hours on a spinning bike to build endurance and time in the gym to strengthen my core and upper body for the long hours in the saddle.
Can you share a memorable moment or challenge you faced during the journey?
The weather was one of the biggest challenges this year. Unlike in 2022, we faced rain, wind, and cold temperatures. But even during the toughest moments, there were incredible highlights—like celebrating with champagne after conquering the slopes of Huy in Belgium, despite the downpour. That moment of triumph and camaraderie felt invincible.
How did support from those around you and the cause you were riding for impact your motivation?
Knowing that our efforts directly benefit children battling cancer is my biggest motivation. Each name written on my bike frame represents someone I care about, and every time I looked down during the ride, I found the strength to push a little further. I also received a ton of support from my colleagues at BIC, some of whom even donated money from their own pockets, but overall the whole team has been very supportive of my journey.
What lessons or personal growth have you gained from this experience?
The biggest lesson I’ve learned is patience—both with others and with myself. We are all different, but when we come together, we can create something truly impactful. Looking ahead, my next goal is to complete the Svensk Klassiker, which involves running, cycling, swimming, and skiing within a year. I’ll continue supporting Team Rynkeby through both sponsorship and my time.
Anna’s story is a testament to the power of determination and community. Her dedication to Team Rynkeby, her colleagues, and the children she supports through her fundraising efforts showcases the type of qualities and resilience that we value at BIC. Whether cycling through for a cause or pushing through new professional challenges, Anna exemplifies what it means to lead with passion and purpose.
If you’re inspired by stories like Anna’s and want to be part of a team that values making a difference, discover more about life at BIC here: careers.bic.com