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Monday 13 July 2026

60 senior figures from across the UK events industry came together at Founders Hall for the fifth Industry Leaders Lunch in support of The Akwaaba Foundation, raising £24,000 to help transform the lives of vulnerable children in Ghana.

Hosted by Venue Search London in partnership with leading event industry consultants Kershaw Partners, the event combined networking, industry insight and fundraising to celebrate the charity's tenth anniversary.

Over the past decade, The Akwaaba Foundation has supported more than 300 children through educational sponsorship, vocational training and sports programmes, helping young people build brighter futures in some of Accra's most disadvantaged communities.

The charity's co-founder, Jordan Palmer, addressed guests during the lunch, reflecting on the charity's ten-year journey and updating attendees on the recent devastating floods in Accra. She thanked the UK events industry for the generosity and commitment it has shown in recent years.

Guests also heard from Denis McCourt of Awesome Events, who shared his first-hand experiences after recently spending a week volunteering on Akwaaba's projects in Ghana. His account provided a powerful reminder of the lasting difference the charity's work is making to the children, families and communities it supports.

The day began with a leadership session led by Emilie Thysse of Yellow Door Training before guests enjoyed lunch prepared by Life's Kitchen.

Dominique Gill, Director of Venue Search London, said:

"The generosity shown by our industry never ceases to amaze me. We are incredibly grateful to our event sponsors, everyone who donated prizes for the silent auction and, of course, everyone who attended and supported the event."

"The feedback from both the leadership session and the lunch has been fantastic. Raising £24,000 in a single day is an extraordinary achievement and the impact this will have for children and families in Accra cannot be overstated."

Mike Kershaw added:

"This event perfectly demonstrates the power of our industry. Live events create opportunities to build relationships, share ideas and inspire one another, but they also have an incredible ability to bring people together to make a genuine difference".

"The Industry Leaders Lunch has become something quite special. It provides a rare opportunity for senior leaders to step away from the day-to-day demands of running their businesses, reconnect with peers and, together, support an outstanding cause."

Although the anniversary lunch has concluded, the charity's work continues. The Akwaaba Flood Appeal remains open, with funds helping families affected by the recent flooding in Accra, while The Akwaaba Foundation continues to provide life-changing support through its education, vocational and community programmes.

For more information about The Akwaaba Foundation or to donate, please visit the charity's website. www.akwaabavolunteers.org.uk