CHARITY LUNCH 10TH JANUARY 2025
At the January Court Lunch we welcomed the Master Plaisterer, James Minett who has enjoyed a wide and distinguished career.
Also, we welcomed three outstanding individuals; two of whom were representing the main Charities supported by our Livery: Susannah Mair, from Farms for City Children and Djamila Boothman, from Teach First. They were joined by Jonathan Broadhurst studying at Harper Adams, supported by funds from our Education Charity.
Each in their different way showcased the real and tangible value of the fantastic work done by our Charity and Education Committees.
Jonathan Broadhurst is studying for his Master of Research. His subject is Improving the Efficiency of UK Sheep Farms with respect to their environmental performance.
Susannah Mair is the dynamic Corporate Fund Raising Manager of Farms for City Children. In the summer she was part of the team organising the Festival of Learning at Butchers’ Hall attended by the Princess Royal. In the late autumn Susannah and her team raised £35,000 for her Charity. She received a wonderful round of applause.
Djamilla Boothman vice principal of Totteridge Academy, trustee of Teach First, author and documentary maker was our guest speaker
She detailed how she had grown up in England, her father being a solicitor involved in the Stephen Lawrence Case. She went to Antigua where she managed a hotel, then returned to England. On her return, her mother asked the simple question would you like to help the most disadvantaged children with their education. She could not resist and joined Teach First, worked through the programme, then achieved her Masters in Education.
In detail, she explained although she could not be more grateful for the significant sums provided by our Livery, it is our practical involvement that makes our relationship so special. She mentioned the workplace visits to organisations such as Aubrey Allen, Porky Whites and Harper Adams, the Coaching provided by members of the Livery and our support for Run the River.
Her speech received tremendous applause and countless plaudits such as “I say one of the best speakers we have had recently.” “She was impressive and great company.”
