Forbes Family Group Gala Unites Black Excellence to Raise £360,000 for Life-Saving Cause

The Forbes Family Group Fundraising Gala was nothing short of iconic. Hosted at London’s Royal Lancaster Hotel, this star-studded affair brought out the biggest names in football, television, and music to support the ACLT charity, raising an impressive £360,000 in the process.

From football legend Rio Ferdinand and his wife, TV personality Kate Ferdinand, to the inspirational Katie Piper, pop star Leigh-Anne Pinnock, and Netflix sensation Chelsea Lazkani, the guest list oozed Black excellence, class, and purpose. But this wasn’t just another glamorous night—it was an event of real impact, supporting a cause that touches the lives of thousands across the Black community.

In a world filled with endless galas and events, the Forbes Family Group Gala brought a refreshing vibe—dressing up for something that truly matters. It was a chance to show up not just in stunning outfits but in solidarity for a purpose. Looking good while doing good added a powerful new meaning to the idea of a night out, blending style with substance in the most meaningful way.

ACLT’s mission is close to home for many. The charity works tirelessly to provide life-saving treatments and support for those affected by blood cancers and blood disorders, particularly within the Black community. With illnesses like sickle cell predominantly affecting people of African and Caribbean heritage, the need for ethnically matched blood donors is more pressing than ever.

As it stands, just 2% of the UK’s 799,000 regular blood donors are of Black heritage, even though sickle cell affects over 17,000 people in the UK. Thanks to organisations like ACLT, the number of Black blood donors is increasing, but there’s still a long way to go.

Orin Lewis OBE, CEO & Co-Founder of ACLT, expressed his gratitude, saying, “Forbes Family Group delivered a night that was not just glamorous but deeply meaningful. We were able to spread our message, encouraging everyone to give the gift of life by donating blood.”

The night featured everything from a silent auction to the opportunity for guests to find out their blood type—an interactive and educational way to connect donors with ACLT’s life-saving work. The gala is also deeply personal for Dean and Danielle Forbes, whose daughter battled leukaemia at just two years old. This personal experience with ACLT inspired them to curate the event.

Dean Forbes, Chairman of Forbes Family Group, said, “We were honoured to host this year’s gala to support ACLT’s vital work. To have our community come together and raise £360,000 is incredible. It’s a reminder that change is possible when we unite.”

Forbes Family Group continues to amplify the work of ACLT, proving that when community and purpose align, the results are powerful. And with all the glitz and glamour, it’s a reminder that sometimes the best reason to dress up is for a cause that really matters.