The Wickers Charity, a dedicated East London-based organization focused on reducing gang-related crime and supporting the youth of the area, recently hosted an extraordinary fundraising event that will leave a lasting impact. The charity brought together some of the most prominent figures in the property industry for an unforgettable Great Gatsby themed black-tie extravaganza with white-collar boxing for the main event. Held at the prestigious De Vere Grand Connaught Rooms, the event was made possible through the generous sponsorship of renowned London property developer Aitch Group, Wooldridge Group & Southern Grove Group.
The evening commenced with an entrance fit for the stars, as paparazzi and showgirls welcomed the guests, setting the stage for an unforgettable experience.
The event showcased the remarkable bravery and commitment of some industry icons including: Andrew Southern, Founder and Chairman of Southern Grove Group of Companies, Charlie Wooldridge, Commercial Director at Wooldridge Group and Harry Martin, Director at JLL. These individuals dedicated months of intense training and unwavering determination to deliver awe-inspiring performances in the boxing ring.
Andrew Southern, Founder and Chairman of Southern Grove Group of Companies says: “I was inspired to get involved in the boxing event to raise awareness and funds to fight the growing epidemic that is knife crime on the streets of London.”
Charlie Wooldridge, Commercial Director at Wooldridge Group says: “If I have to be punched in the face, at least I know it’s for a good cause! I’m really proud to have taken part in the event and to be supporting a charity which works with disadvantaged youths to help combat knife crime.”
The Wickers Charity were also honoured to have the extraordinary Jonny Nelson, a SkySports Boxing Presenter, as the esteemed host, and ex-professional boxer, Victor Smith, now British Boxing Board of Control professional boxing coach and owner of the famous Essex Fight Academy as a supporter on the night.
The auction itself featured an array of priceless experiences and exclusive prizes, ranging from a personal shopping experience at Browns with £10,000 to spend, seven nights in a private villa in Barbados, sniper experience with the Royal Marines to the opportunity to tattoo a friend live on the night of the event.
The tremendous generosity of the attendees, along with the unwavering support of the event sponsors, allowed The Wickers Charity to raise an astounding £150,000+ in support of their vital initiatives.
To conclude the night on a high note, The House Gospel Choir filled the air and kept the energy alive as guests danced into the early hours, celebrating the remarkable success of the event.
The Wickers Charity extends its heartfelt gratitude to the dedicated boxers, sponsors, and supporters who made this event a resounding triumph including the event sponsors: Aitch Group, Wooldridge Developments and WOW Hydrate.
The funds raised through the Great Gatsby Boxing Event will significantly bolster The Wickers Charity’s ongoing efforts to combat knife crime and provide essential support and life-changing opportunities for the youth of East London.
The Wickers Charity mission is to deliver activities that keep young people off the street and build their life skills, provide positive role models that give hope for a better life and prepare them for a positive future, as well as giving them access to opportunities for employment. Overall, the aim is to prevent young people from entering a life of crime by providing opportunities to succeed in life. With a personal connection to the consequences of knife crime in East London, having lost his brother-in-law, Founder Henry Smith has made it his own personal mission to make sure other families do not suffer in the same way. Mr Smith’s family are also heavily involved in the charity, including daughter Brogan Garrit-Smith who is Chief Fundraiser at The Wickers Charity and helped create and make the event the success that it was.
Henry Smith, Founder of The Wickers Charity and CEO at Aitch Group, commented, “The success of our Great Gatsby Boxing Event is a testament to the unwavering commitment and passion of everyone involved. We are immensely grateful to the property industry, our sponsors, and all those who generously contributed to this cause. By raising in excess of £150,000, we have taken a significant step forward in our mission to combat knife crime and empower the youth of East London. Together, we are making a tangible difference and building a brighter future for our community.”
