The inaugural Football for Peace initiative dinner by Global Gift took place on the 8th of April, hosted by Young Peace Envoy Braydon Bent and TV star Jessica Wright.
The evening saw a whole host of stars from the worlds of football, music, fashion and television join together to raise funds and support both foundations. Special guests included Katie Piper, Jessica Wright, Mamadou Sakho, Callum Wilson, Andy Carroll, Carlton Cole, Oumar Niasse, Adebayo Akinfenwa, Marlon Harewood among many others, who all gathered to raise funds and make a difference in the lives of children and women around the world
The black-tie event took place at the Corinthia Hotel London, guests enjoyed a 3-course dinner accompanied by Taittinger champagne and D1 London spirits.
Harry Redknapp, who was unable to attend due to illness, was presented via video with the Global Gift Humanitarian Award.
Wilfried Zaha was presented with the Philanthropist Award after revealing that 10 per cent of his monthly earnings are donated to charity.
I am delighted to accept this award on Harry’s behalf for the work he and Sandra have done in the community.
Jeff Mostyn, Bournemouth AFC Chairman, Trustee of Football for Peace
At the Global Gift Foundation, we recognise the importance of supporting women, children and the under privileged in communities around the world. It is an honour to work alongside an organisation like Football for Peace which is ground breaking within its own industry, yet champions similar messages to ours, messages of unity and diversity at a time when we all need to come together.
Maria Bravo, Founder of the Global Gift Foundation
Football brings people together – in the professional game – on the terraces – in parks, back gardens, playgrounds, in conflict zones – anywhere big enough to kick a ball around. And because it brings people together – from all backgrounds, religions and countries – it creates friendships, bonds and opens up dialogue between people. I believe women have a critical role to play in this understanding, because they are such strong role models and root of our communities. Behind every great success there is always a strong woman! And tonight is no exception – Maria Bravo and I share an amazing vision. I am personally grateful for this partnership between Football for Peace and Global Gift Gala as we aim to take this joint initiative around the world! I hope you are all also as excited to come on this journey with us!
Kash Siddiqi, Co-Founder of Football for Peace
We have witnessed far too many tragedies recently that have stemmed from rivalries that could have been prevented, we have seen a rise in hate crime because individuals don’t understand enough about each other’s cultures and ways of living and this can’t continue. The Young people of today don’t just change our tomorrow, they sculpt our future. This is why the Young Peace leaders programme delivered by football for peace is so crucial in helping our young people fight against the Violence, Hate Crime and misunderstanding present today in our Communities.
Jessica Cleaver, a Young Peace Leader who took part in the educational programme in Birmingham
