Yorkshire’s business community once again demonstrated its incredible generosity and commitment to making a difference, raising an astounding £47,000 for vital cancer research at the third annual Business Beats Cancer Yorkshire gala dinner. The event, which took place at The Queens Hotel in Leeds, brought together over 350 guests from the region’s thriving business sector, all united in support of Cancer Research UK.
The prestigious evening, hosted by BBC Look North presenter Amy Garcia, was filled with heart-warming stories, inspiring speeches, and a lively auction that featured unique prizes. Guests also took part in a charity raffle and made generous donations throughout the night, all contributing to the impressive total raised.
Speakers included Susan Johnstone, divisional senior manager at Cancer Research UK, and Professor David Sebag-Montifore, Professor of Clinical Oncology and Health Research at the University of Leeds. Both highlighted the groundbreaking advancements in cancer research and the crucial role that Business Beats Cancer Yorkshire plays in funding cutting-edge treatments and scientific discoveries.
A highlight of the evening was an engaging panel session, led by respected broadcaster Tanya Arnold. The panel featured motivational speaker and former professional footballer Dominic Matteo, Yorkshire County Cricket Club’s head of commercial sales and partnerships Simon Pixsley, and Johnny Abraham, managing director at J9 Advisory. Each shared personal and inspiring stories of resilience and triumph over adversity, further emphasising the importance of supporting cancer research.
Share Jewellery & Gift Boutique was proud to be one of the event’s sponsors, alongside Party Delights, Karen Betts, Hayley Baxter, Matt Crumpton Videography, and media partner TheBusinessDesk.com. As a family-run business rooted in the heart of Roundhay, Leeds, we are passionate about giving back to our local community and supporting causes that make a real difference. We were delighted to donate Gift Vouchers worth £1000.00 and £250.00 for the raffle, contributing to the success of the evening.
Business Beats Cancer is a nationwide initiative that unites influential business leaders to fundraise for Cancer Research UK, the world’s largest cancer charity dedicated to saving lives through research, influence, and information. The Yorkshire board is one of 12 established across the UK, collectively raising more than £1.7 million to date.
Alexandra Fogal, chair of Business Beats Cancer Yorkshire, expressed her gratitude, saying, “On behalf of the Business Beats Cancer Yorkshire board, I’d like to say a massive ‘thank you’ to everyone involved in our brilliant gala dinner, including our sponsors. From auction bids to ticket sales and prize donations, we have been blown away by the fantastic generosity of the Yorkshire business community and are extremely grateful to everyone involved for their support.”
Kathryn Leverett, relationship manager at Cancer Research UK, added, “We know how many demands there are on people’s time and budgets, especially at this time, and we are therefore hugely thankful to everyone for their support; it really is appreciated. All money raised by Business Beats Cancer Yorkshire supports lifesaving research right here in Yorkshire. These vital funds will make a genuinely positive impact and contribute massively towards our ongoing efforts to beat cancer.”
At Share Jewellery & Gift Boutique, we are incredibly proud to have played a part in this remarkable evening. As we continue to serve our loyal customers with beautiful, handcrafted jewellery and unique gifts, we are equally committed to supporting meaningful causes that touch the lives of so many in our community.
We look forward to future collaborations with Business Beats Cancer Yorkshire and other local initiatives that allow us to make a positive impact. Together, we can help fund the innovative research that will lead to better treatments and, ultimately, a cure for cancer.